Cheteshwar Pujara emphasized the challenges of scoring runs in the Ranji Trophy while expressing confidence in his ability to continue contributing to cricket despite being out of the Indian Test squad.
Cheteshwar Pujara, despite being sidelined from the Indian Test squad since the World Test Championship final last year, remains optimistic about his cricketing future. The seasoned batter, playing for Saurashtra in the ongoing Ranji Trophy, emphasized the challenges of scoring runs even at this level.
In an interview, Pujara expressed confidence in his batting form and fitness, highlighting the necessity of hard work in maintaining success. He also dismissed age as a barrier, citing examples like James Anderson’s longevity in cricket.
“Definitely. The way I have been batting and keeping up with my fitness, I am very confident. Scoring runs in Ranji Trophy is not a piece of cake, even though people may want to say it. There is no DRS and decisions don’t always go your way. To keep scoring one has to work hard and be at the top of the game. I hope I will be able to continue to contribute at whichever level I get an opportunity,” Hindustan Times quoted Pujara as saying.
“I genuinely feel that age is just a number. You have the example of James Anderson who is bowling fast at 41 and is still England’s best bowler. Novak Djokovic recently said that 35 is the new 25,” he added.
Pujara’s exceptional performance in the Ranji Trophy season saw him amass 673 runs in six matches at an impressive average of 74.77, with two centuries, notably a stunning 243* against Jharkhand. His contribution has Saurashtra positioned third in Group A with 22 points.
Emphasizing age’s insignificance in fitness maintenance, Pujara believes focusing on a single format benefits his physical upkeep, enabling him to sustain peak performance. Despite not featuring in the ongoing England series due to the selectors’ preference for younger players, Pujara remains dedicated to refining his game.
He will play his next match when Saurashtra faces Manipur in their last group-stage game, starting on February 16th.
Last Updated on February 14, 2024
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