New Delhi | Rajasthan Royals wicketkeeper-batter Dhruv Jurel believes encouraging players to back their instincts was central to the team's approach this IPL season, saying the franchise has consistently focused on playing "positive cricket" despite a challenging campaign.

Jurel, one of Royals' most consistent performers this season, said his role behind the stumps went beyond tactics, particularly when it came to working with young bowlers and debutants who are often burdened by nerves and self-doubt.

"As a wicketkeeper, when I talk to bowlers, I never tell them what to bowl. I just say, 'brother, take your time. You are good enough. That is why you are here'," Jurel told JioStar.

"I focus on giving them confidence. I tell them, 'back yourself. Whatever delivery you plan to bowl, stick to it. Don't overthink. We have to play good cricket. We have to play positive cricket'. And we have done that throughout this IPL season'." The 25-year-old also underlined the importance of positive communication within the dressing room, revealing how even simple conversations before an innings can have a significant impact on a player's mindset.

According to Jurel, encouraging words from teammates often stay with him when he walks out to bat and help create a healthier atmosphere within the squad.

Known for his calm temperament in the middle order, Jurel said he based his batting on the demands of the situation rather than imposing himself on the game immediately.

He explained that his priority was often to rotate strike and support aggressive batters such as Yashasvi Jaiswal and Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, allowing partnerships to flourish while keeping the scoreboard moving.

Rajasthan Royals, who finished fourth in the points table after the conclusion of the group stage, bowed out of the IPL 2026 following loss to Gujarat Titans in the Qualifier 2 in Mullanpur on Friday.

Jurel also spoke about his relentless desire to improve as a batter, joking that he regularly finds ways to spend extra time in the nets despite batting coach Vikram Rathour's efforts to share practice opportunities equally among players.

"I love to bat," he said.

"I reach early and start batting before the session officially begins. When my turn ends, I keep finding ways to get back in because before a match, I don't want to feel that I am not ready."