'We weren’t looking to go bonkers': Dhruv Jurel reveals India’s strategy after 460/9 on Day 2

Dhruv Jurel disclosed India's meticulously crafted plan to score rapidly but judiciously on the rain-interrupted second day of the first Test against Sri Lanka in Galle. Ultimately, India concluded Day 2 at 460/9, with Kuldeep Yadav still unbeaten on 12 and Prasidh Krishna on 1. Jurel's half-century enabled India to surpass 450 runs.

He opened the innings after the loss of KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant, employing an assertive knock to maintain the momentum. Jurel explained that while a brisk scoring plan was in place, they avoided hasty play. His previous exposure to Sri Lanka conditions with India A bolstered his confidence. "I know the conditions here, having played for India A here," Jurel stated during the post-match press conference.

Despite being dropped once, Jurel remained unfazed, securing his place in the team. Padikkal emerged as India's top performer, amassing a magnificent 167 off 230 balls, including 15 fours and a six, becoming the third Indian batsman to score 150+ against Sri Lanka from the No. 3 position. Jurel commended Padikkal's consistent performance.

However, the pressure mounted when Prabath Jayasuriya's hat-trick and Keshara Nuwantha's 3/175 disrupted India's batting lineup. Jurel emphasizes that India requires 20 wickets to safeguard their first-innings total, as the second day was heavily affected by rain, leading to significant batting losses.