Overview:
Pujara’s last appearance for India came during the World Test Championship final in 2023 against Australia, a match India lost by 209 runs. Following that defeat, Pujara was dropped.
Ravichandran Ashwin recently said that Cheteshwar Pujara, despite having an impact on Indian cricket similar to that of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma never received the recognition he truly deserved. Pujara made the announcement of his retirement from Test cricket, having last played for the national side in 2023. Over 103 Test matches, he accumulated 7,195 runs at an average of 43.60, with 19 centuries and 35 fifties to his name.
Pujara was often seen as the natural successor to Rahul Dravid and he justified his selection. Ashwin reflected on Pujara’s career and noted that while his contributions were essential, they were often overshadowed. He pointed out that Pujara played a key role in helping Kohli score many of his runs.
“Cheteshwar Pujara’s contributions to Indian cricket are just as significant as those of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. While people often talk about their achievements, Pujara doesn’t always get the same recognition. Not every cricketer receives the spotlight. Pujara’s role at No.3 was crucial, and believe it or not, he played a big part in helping Virat Kohli score runs,” Ashwin shared on his YouTube Channel.
Together, Kohli and Pujara forged several memorable partnerships, accumulating 3,513 runs from 83 innings at an average of 43.37. In 2016, during a match in Visakhapatnam, they formed their most notable partnership, combining for a stand of 226 runs for the third wicket against England.
Ashwin drew a comparison between Pujara and the ‘White Walker’ from Game of Thrones, suggesting that, like the character, Pujara was a crucial force in Indian cricket.
“The cricket-loving fans are well aware of Cheteshwar Pujara’s contribution. If you’ve watched Game of Thrones, you’ll know the character of the White Walker. I often refer to Pujara as a White Walker. He moves slowly but is always there, never leaving the field,” Ashwin added.
Pujara’s last appearance for India came during the World Test Championship final in 2023 against Australia, a match India lost by 209 runs. Following that defeat, Pujara was dropped.