NEW DELHI: Wicketkeeper-batter Dhruv Jurel dedicated his maiden Test century against West Indies to the Indian Army on Friday, saying he has always held "respect for what they do on the battlefield."

Jurel scored a composed 125 on Day 2 of the opening Test, helping India reach a commanding 448/5 at stumps, following centuries from senior teammates KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja.

The 24-year-old's on-field celebrations also grabbed attention - his army salute after both his half-century and century paid tribute not only to the Indian Army but also to his father, a Kargil war veteran.

"The salute (celebration) after reaching my fifty was for my father, but for the hundred, it was something that I had in my mind for a very long time because I have been so close to the Indian Army, I've seen my father since my childhood," Jurel said.

"What we do on the ground and what they do on the battlefield is very difficult and you cannot compare that. I will always have my respect and whatever I will do in the future will be for them.

"I will like to dedicate this to them (Indian Army) for what they do. I have seen them closely how it is like and I remain very fascinated in those things. I also used to keep asking my father. I will dedicate it to those who deserve," he said further.