Share

Pujara's form augurs well for India

New Delhi - Of all the things that went right in the Test series opener against New Zealand, Cheteshwar Pujara's transformation from an obdurate accumulator of runs to a free-scoring batsman when needed must be the most pleasing for India captain Virat Kohli.

In a team teeming with flamboyant strokemakers, Pujara's batting, built on a watertight defence and an unflappable temperament, is almost an anachronism.

India's test number three feels he has no obligation to quench the boundary-thirst of the home fans, shuns the aerial route like a man inflicted with the fear of flying and believes defence is the best offence.

Rather unsurprisingly, the 29-year-old went unsold in the players' auction for the Indian Premier League (IPL), and his strike rate, currently under 49 in tests, led to his exclusion from the third Test against West Indies last month.

First in the domestic Duleep Trophy and now in the first Test against New Zealand, Pujara's batting has been something of a revelation.

"Obviously he's someone who absorbs pressure really well," Kohli said of Pujara whose scores of 62 and 78 came with 50-plus strike rates in both innings. "After a certain stage in the innings, there comes a time when the team needs a few runs.

"That's where we felt he has enough ability to capitalise. It was just about conveying to him."

Kohli confirmed the team management had a chat with Pujara to fine tune his game.

"We did not want him to go into a shell," Kohli said. "We want Pujara to bat to his potential. Once he starts scoring runs along with the composure he already has, it becomes very difficult for the opposition to have control on the game.

"That's all we wanted to convey to him."

Batting at what is arguably the most important position in a Test lineup, Pujara's form will be key to India's success in their bumper 13-Test home season and Kohli was glad the right hander took the advice in right spirit.

"He's someone who really understands what the team wants and has worked really hard on his game," Kohli said.

"We as a team and I as the captain really appreciate that he's worked hard and hasn't told us that 'this is my comfort zone, I'm not going to get out of it'."

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
26% - 1273 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1470 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2249 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE