Cheteshwar Pujara addressing the press conference. , Photo Credit: RV Murthy
Another chapter is about to be added to Cheteshwar Pujara’s memorable stories related to Australia.
Ahead of the historic 100th Test against the Down Under side on Friday, the serious batsman praised the team’s attitude on the field of play. “There is a good fighting spirit in Australia. Whatever the playing situation, he will always challenge you as an opponent.”
Interestingly, four of Pujara’s five best innings have come against Australia. For the record, Pujara lists 72 on debut in 2010, 92 in 2017, both in Bengaluru, 123 in Adelaide in 2018 and 56 in Brisbane in 2021 as his favorite innings, apart from 153 in Johannesburg, South Africa in 2013 . ,
“I had to work hard to get those runs,” Pujara said, adding, “They play as a unit. They are always assertive, even on the field. So a bit of humor there going on, and sometimes it motivates me a bit more because I’m not someone who will try and talk them up. The best thing you can do as a cricketer is to score runs and keep the bat Let them speak. So yes, they have been a challenging opposition.”
Asked to look back on how he has evolved as a batsman and a person since his debut in 2010, Pujara said, “I am a bit more open-minded now. I have learned to be a little flexible to adjust to different situations, try a few more shots and be ready to change your game and your technique.
“As a person, I am still the Cheteshwar that people know. I don’t think you need to change as a person as long as you are a good person. So I always try to do that.”
Meanwhile, Australian skipper Pat Cummins remained tight-lipped about the playing XI and fifth bowling option.
“Having a right-handed batsman (in the form of Cameron Green) helps and providing our fifth bowling option definitely helps the team do well,” he added.
With the uncertainty over fast bowler Mitchell Starc’s fitness, Cummins did not rule out Scott Boland’s return, saying, “I think talks are on. We will find a solution.”