Former Indian spinner Murali Kartik has put his weight behind Dhruv Jurel ahead of Sarfaraz Khan for the first Test against Sri Lanka. Khan replaced injured Sai Sudharsan in the squad after the latter was ruled out with a toe injury.

Meanwhile, Khan has been included in the Test squad after the Australia tour.

Khan has scored 371 runs in six Test matches at an average of 37.1, whereas Jurel has amassed 478 runs in 10 Test matches at an average of 34.14.

Jurel has been consistently playing with the national team in the red-ball format whereas Sarafaz has got back into the squad after a long time.

“Dhruv Jurel has been a part of the side, he has been a handy Test batter, he has done exactly whatever the team has asked him to do. So, I would want him to start in the playing XI. Sarfaraz has done nothing wrong, but he is coming in as a replacement. For me, going forward, the key for the Indian team is the kind of consistency we show in the way we play and pick sides, and also the messaging,” Murali Kartik told a select group of reporters during a chat organised by Sony Sports Network.

“So it is very important that the players feel secure about their places in the playing XI. From that point of view, and also because Jurel is a wonderful wicket-keeper, if needed. So, I would want Dhruv Jurel to start,” he added.

It would be interesting to note the team management’s decision. Khan has an impressive record against the spinners whereas Jurel also has a solid technique.

India will face Sri Lanka in the first Test at Galle from August 15.