Cheteshwar Pujara Exclusive: Reflections on His Greatest Knocks and Toughest Opponents

In an exclusive interview, Cheteshwar Pujara reflects on his greatest knocks, marathon stays at the crease, and the toughest opponents he faced.

Most Memorable Innings

Pujara's most fondly remembered innings was the 145 against Sri Lanka in Sri Lanka, an unbeaten knock that helped India win the series. He also cherishes the 123 at Adelaide in 2018, which contributed to India's historic series win in Australia.

Contrast Between Sri Lanka and Australia

Pujara attributes his success against Australia to his ability to adapt to different conditions and opponents. He believes that playing against tough opponents like Australia helps him to come out on top.

Sydney and Gabba: Body Blows and Mental Toughness

Pujara recounts the physical and mental challenges he faced during the 2021 series in Australia, particularly in Sydney and Gabba. He credits his mental toughness and faith in a higher power for helping him to overcome the difficulties.

Australian Pacers and Spinners

Pujara enjoys playing against tough opponents, including Australian pacers and spinners. He believes that playing against them helps him to improve his game and develop new strategies.

Technique Against Spin

Pujara's technique against spin is impeccable, and he has developed a method that works for him. He emphasizes the importance of precise footwork and stepping out of the crease to unsettle the bowler's length.

Commitment and Patience

Pujara's ability to bat for long periods is due to his commitment and patience. He believes that these qualities are essential for success in Test cricket.

Monk at the Crease

Sanjay Manjrekar's description of Pujara as a monk at the crease is apt, as Pujara believes that batting is a meditative state that requires peak concentration.

Toughest Place to Score

Pujara finds England the most challenging place to score, particularly when they produce green-top pitches with Anderson and Broad in their bowling lineup.

Most Troublesome Bowlers

Pujara identifies Dale Steyn and Morne Morkel at their peak as the most challenging bowlers he faced, along with Jimmy Anderson in English conditions and Pat Cummins in international cricket.

Last of the Classical Test Batsmen?

Pujara acknowledges the shift in modern cricket, with players coming into Test cricket through T20 and ODI formats. He believes that his game, built on defense and playing according to the situation, is different from the more aggressive approach of modern players.