IPL 2023: Motivated knowing that he is standing behind and watching me – Dhruv Jurel on playing against MS Dhoni

Rajasthan Royals youngster Dhruv Jurel has admitted he doesn’t feel the pressure while playing against legendary MS Dhoni. The young batter stated he feels motivated to prove his mettle knowing Dhoni is standing behind and watching him.

Jurel, who was part of India Under-19 World Cup team in 2020, scored another impressive knock of 34 runs off just 15 balls with the help of three fours and two sixes against CSK on Thursday. Thus, he played an instrumental role in helping his team post a par score of 202 runs on the board.

In fact, Jurel is known to hit the ground running and he has been doing a fine job for Rajasthan Royals in the ongoing season. The right-hander has scored 130 runs in seven innings at an average of 32.50 and a blistering strike rate of 196.96.

Dhruv Jurel said in the post-match press conference, “I am fortunate enough to share the same field with Dhoni sir. I have been seeing him playing since I was a child. I don’t feel any pressure. On the other hand, it serves like a motivation. I am motivated knowing that he is standing behind me and watching me. That is enough for me.”

The 22-year-old from Agra added he is confident that he can hit everywhere when he comes out to bat. The right-hander has definitely impressed with his finishing skills for RR.

“This [finisher’s] is the spot that was given by the management, so I practice like that. I doesn’t feel like I have less amount of balls and I have to score big runs. I have practiced enough that I have to hit six for every ball.

“I do three-four hours of batting every day, making sure I am getting something from my batting. My mantra is bat; the rest will take care of itself.”

Jurel added he was looking to play according to the match situation and he was able to get off the blocks quickly.

“I just try to keep the game simple. I know that I can hit everywhere. I got some time as I went to bat with 4-5 overs left. I know if I score at a run-a-ball for six-seven balls, I can cover that up.”

Rajasthan Royals will next take on Mumbai Indians in the 42nd match of the ongoing IPL 2023 at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai on Sunday.