Indian cricket’s seasoned pro, Cheteshwar Pujara delivered a performance of sublime class, carving out a monumental double-century in Saurashtra’s encounter with Jharkhand in the current Ranji Trophy season. On Day 3 of this formidable clash, Pujara’s masterclass involved a majestic 243 off 356 deliveries, showcasing a powerful array of 30 boundaries, underlining his undiminished abilities.
The significance of Pujara’s knock cannot be overstated as it comes at a pivotal time when selections for the forthcoming Test series against England are on the horizon. Having been a mainstay in the Indian Test lineup for many years, Pujara found himself outside the team’s setup for the new World Test Championship 2023-2025 cycle. His last appearance in the Indian whites was during the WTC 2023 final against Australia, after which he was notably absent from the squads for the series against the West Indies and South Africa.
Pujara, with a reputation for accumulating wearying centuries, took his game to an entirely new level in Saurashtra’s innings. The declaration came at a towering 578/4, with captain Jaydev Unadkat making the call. Pujara’s journey to the double century was marked with patient skill, ultimately reaching the landmark with a flick to the leg side off Shahbaz Nadeem’s bowling. The previous day’s play had seen him walk off unbeaten at 157, and the continuation of that form saw him steer his team to a position of absolute dominance.
This dazzling innings marks Pujara’s 17th ton in first-class cricket, a figure that pulls him level with notable names such as Mark Ramprakash and Herbert Sutcliffe. With the likes of Don Bradman, Wally Hammond, and Patsy Hendren ahead of him, Pujara now finds elite company in the annals of prolific run scorers.
Pujara’s double century was a statement, a timely reminder of his enduring value in the longest format of the game. In a cricket age often dominated by the razzle-dazzle of T20s, his innings was a throwback to the art of marathon batting – patient, strategic, and unyielding. Beyond the numbers, it was the manner of his scoring, peppered with luscious drives and delicate nudges, that reaffirmed his status as one of the modern greats of Test batting.
It may also be a juncture to reflect on what Pujara brings to the table. Beyond his undeniable skill, his experience and knowledge are vital in a game that’s continuously evolving. His presence within a dressing room adds an intangible quality, a benchmark of professionalism and dedication for the upcoming talent.
Questions have been raised about the balance of youth and experience within the Indian cricketing ranks. Performances such as the one displayed by Pujara offer selectors a compelling case to blend the enduring class of seasoned players with the exuberance of emerging cricketers. With India’s cricketing calendar packed with challenges, including marquee series and the persistent quest for World Test Championship glory, the allure of a dependable figure like Pujara is hard to resist.
With such a performance, Pujara has once again thrown his hat into the ring, making a compelling case for the selectors to ponder. His innings have sent a resonating message through the corridors of power: form is temporary; class and experience are perpetual. As the Indian cricket fraternity waits on the edges of their seats for the squad announcement, many advocates for the traditional form of the game hope to see Pujara’s name on the team sheet, ready once more to don the national colors and wield his bat like the seasoned warrior he is.
