IND vs SA 2025: ‘I can see him playing a big role’ – Temba Bavuma names India player who has impressed him the most

South African Test skipper Temba Bavuma feels Dhruv Jurel has the calibre to do wonders for Indian cricket going forward. The all-format series between India and South Africa is scheduled to get underway on November 14.

Bavuma elaborated on his point by highlighting his experience of seeing Jurel bat during the recent second unofficial Test between India A and South Africa A. Bavuma felt the “exciting young international player” has a lot of scope to make it big.

Jurel was in sublime form for India A in the second unofficial Test at the Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru. He struck centuries in both innings (132* and 127*). Despite his stellar effort, the hosts lost the contest by five wickets.

“I was part of the South Africa A squad. We played a four-day series in Bengaluru at the Center of Excellence. I played in the second Test and I got to see Dhruv Jurel. I think he is a fantastic batter, fantastic player. Technically proficient and bats at a good intensity as well. I think for the future of Indian cricket, I can see him playing a big role within that space if he continues to grow the way he is. I think he is an exciting young international player,” Bavuma was quoted as saying by Star Sports’ Follow The Blues.

Bavuma also spoke on the talent Shubman Gill possesses. He lauded the manner in which Gill piled on the runs during India’s five-match tour of England earlier in the year. Bavuma also felt that Gill will steadily grow into the role of delivering with the bat as captain. 

“It’s exciting times for Indian cricket. I think, Shubman, he has got big shoes to fill, taking over from a guy like Rohit Sharma, and what he has done for Indian cricket. But look, he is a fantastic player. Look at the way he started off in England, first of all, as a batter. It’s never easy going over there and scoring runs. To be able to do that and with the responsibility of captain, I think that’s a big feather in his cap, and I am sure he will grow into it,” he added.

The first Test of the series between India and South Africa will be played at the Eden Gardens from November 14 while the second one will commence at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati from November 22. The Gill-led unit will be aiming on extending their home dominance after clean sweeping West Indies in their recent two-match Test series.