The youngest member of the Indian contingent Dhruv Jurel hogged the spotlight during a practice session which threw light on his promising leadership skills. The youngster went as far as even defeating the likes of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. The Indian team management devised an incentive-based fielding game comprising three groups - Group A, Group B, and Group C. 

Jurel captained Group C which came on top brushing aside Sarfraz Khan-led Group A & Siraj-led Group B, earning a reward of $300 for their efforts.

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Jurel & Co. throw themselves around to win 300 dollar reward

The fielding competition was conducted as a part of the preparation process for the fourth Test starting in Melbourne on December 26. All three groups were led by young brigades who were all entangled in a fierce battle. Group A was led by Sarfaraz Khan which included some prominent figures like Kohli, Jaiswal, and Rana. 

Target hitting with points system 🎯

3 groups led by young captains 🧢

Cash reward on the line 💰

Fun, energy and intensity - #TeamIndia gears up for the Melbourne Test with a lively fielding drill with Fielding coach T Dilip 💥#AUSvIND

— BCCI (@BCCI) December 23, 2024

Group B was marshaled by Siraj who had high-profile players at his helm such as Kohli, Pant, and Rahul. However, Jurel's Group C emerged triumphant which included the likes of gun players such as Bumrah, Gill, and Jadeja. The defeat of Virat and Rohit's teams at the hands of a youngster serves as a positive indication that the future of Indian cricket is in safe hands. 

Preparations for the Boxing Day Test

Preparations for the upcoming Boxing Day test on December 26 are underway in full swing. With the series evenly balanced at 1-1, both teams have everything to play for in the upcoming Test. Moreover, with the WTC around the corner, both teams realize what's at stake and will look to brace themselves for a high-octane showdown in Melbourne to get themselves ahead.