On the eve of the Test series opener at the picturesque Galle International Stadium, the warm sea breeze has brought in a nip in the Indian camp. While many a selection conundrum is keeping the Indian coaches awake, there is one particular issue surrounding young Dhruv Jurel that seems to be provoking more thoughts than usual.

Once considered a poster boy for poise under pressure, the 25-year-old's journey in the international arena has been on a tightrope walk. And for the last couple of years, he has been balancing between hope and despair in equal measure.

A Slump at the Wrong Time for Dhruv Jurel

Dhruv Jurel's been on a rollercoaster recently, hasn't he? Between his poor form in the last six tests, where he managed a mere 54 runs as a right-handed batsman, and his lowly performance in the home series against South Africa, it's no wonder that the Indian management has been having second thoughts about his position in the team.

“The poor scores and manner in which he has got out have surprised the management.”

A warm-up match against the Sri Lanka Cricket XI failed to console them, as the batter managed only 1 and 17. It seems that the management has made it clear to Jurel that, to hold on to his spot in the XI, he needs to start performing.

Not only was Sarfaraz Khan batting runners in Mumbai, but it seems that he is also a strong contender for the sixth-wicket slot, which will most likely be determined by a toss on Saturday morning. Of course, there is still hope for Jurel, as he has had previous positive experience batting on Sri Lankan pitches:

“[He scored] 208 runs in two Tests on a tour to Sri Lanka by the India 'A' team, unbeaten 141, which saw him exhibit his mettle against the spin on the island country.”

Whether or not these good vibes will be enough to outweigh Sarfaraz's positive stats, however, remains to be seen.

Selection Conundrums Ahead of the First Test

Dhruv Jurel's potential drop from the team is only one of several selection puzzles that Team India has to contend with ahead of the Galle Test.

The no. 3 conundrum: With Sai Sudharsan's injury, it seems as though Devdutt Padikkal has secured his spot in the starting lineup, after posting some stellar numbers in the friendly match against Sri Lanka.

The bowling equation: The Indian management seems to have difficulty deciding on a strategy for the Galle pitches, as they are torn between three spinners to take advantage of the turn and three seamers to take advantage of the bounce the pitch provides.

As Saturday, the 15th of August, draws near, Team India has some difficult decisions to make. As for Dhruv Jurel, it seems that the management has made it quite clear to him that talent gets you in the door, but runs keep you in the team.