Cheteshwar Pujara has recently discussed the challenges linked with the ongoing need to prove one’s abilities. With a notable career spanning more than a hundred Test matches, the experienced batsman occupying the No.3 position has candidly shared insights into the psychological and emotional hurdles linked with a cricketer’s career. Expressing his dismay, Cheteshwar Pujara spoke out after being left out of the national squad for the West Indies tour. The seasoned player, known for his remarkable Test record of an average of 43.60 across 103 matches, acknowledged the roller-coaster nature of his journey in cricket, marked by both successes and setbacks.
Cheteshwar Pujara speaks about his cricketing career
Pujara said, “There have been ups and downs in the last few years, and it tests you as a player because even after playing more than 90 Test matches, I still had to prove myself, that I belonged there. It’s a unique form of task. If you have to prove yourself after 90 Tests and 6,000 runs, it’s not easy.”
Continuing further, he said, “Sometimes it messes with your ego. Despite having been successful at the international level for many years, there are still questions about your ability. If you have to prove yourself over and over again, you wonder if it’s worth it.” Although a return to the Test squad seems uncertain for the accomplished player, he maintains a positive outlook regarding his prospects.
He further said, “I keep telling myself that I know I’m supposed to be there. Despite knowing that with the contributions I’ve made to Indian cricket, I still have a lot to offer. I was told every time I scored more than 70 or 80 runs, India has gone on to win. We have not lost that specific Test match more than 80% of the time. So I know that if I score runs for the Indian team, we usually come out on top.”
Cheteshwar Pujara’s test career
Cheteshwar Pujara has registered an impressive tally of 19 centuries and 35 half-centuries throughout his test cricket journey. These performances have often played a pivotal role in India’s victories, particularly notable against opponents like Australia. His contributions in India’s successful series campaigns against Australia in 2018-19 and 2020-21 have solidified his place in cricketing history.
However, Pujara’s recent struggles with maintaining form have cast a shadow over his illustrious career. In the year 2023, he accumulated a mere 181 runs from five Test matches, reflecting a modest average of 25.85 without securing a century.
Showing strong resolve to make a comeback, the 35-year-old cricketer actively took part in the recent Duleep Trophy representing the West Zone team. Throughout four innings, he showcased his skills, amassing a total of 185 runs with an impressive average of 46.25. Nevertheless, during the grand finale against the South Zone, Pujara encountered dual disappointments as he faced failure in both innings.
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