Former Australia opener Matthew Hayden refused to pick a favourite between India and Australia for the forthcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024/25 edition, to be held later this year in Australia. Since the 2016/17 edition, India have not lost the BGT and Rohit Sharma-led side will be eager to make it three successive Test series win on Australian soil when they tour Down Under in the upcoming Aussie summer. Hayden, the former left-handed batter, didn't pick a favourite and stated that had Cheteshwar Pujara been a part of the Indian batting line-up, he would've given the edge to India.

On the sidelines of the CEAT Cricket Rating Awards, held in Mumbai on Wednesday (Aug 21), Hayden told PTI, ""You look at the lineups, and it's hard to really tell who has the edge. I sense that it's going to be runs that are going to be the point of difference. Guys that are sure bets have retired, like (Cheteshwar) Pujara was a sure bet in Australian conditions."

He further opined, "Was he exciting? No. Was he effective? Heck, yes. When you look back over the years, guys like Raul Dravid, VVS Laxman... they were really sure bets in our market. The best need to stand up in this series, runs are going to be at a premium."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/there-is-a-reason-i-won-five-ipl-trophies-rohit-sharma-eager-to-keep-winning-post-t20-wc-success-752129">There is a reason I won five IPL trophies: Rohit Sharma eager to keep 'winning' post T20 WC success</a>

Notably, Pujara was the difference between both sides when Virat Kohli-led India created history by becoming the first-ever Asian side to win a Test series in Australia in 2018/19. The right-hander, who last played for India during the WTC 2023 final, ended as the Player-of-the-Series with 521 runs in four Tests at 74.42, including three centuries and one fifty.

In the 2020/21 BGT in Australia, Pujara once again played a valuable hand by scoring 271 runs at an average of 33.87 with three half-centuries. He was also among runs in the home Tests in the 2016/17 edition, with a best of 202.

Pujara, a veteran of 103 Tests, has 7,195 runs in the purest format, at an average of 43.60. He, however, hasn't been in India's scheme of things in Tests since mid-2023 and also not been named for the upcoming Duleep Trophy tournament.&nbsp;

Former Australia opener Matthew Hayden refused to pick a favourite between India and Australia for the forthcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024/25 edition, to be held later this year in Australia.

Former Australia opener Matthew Hayden refused to pick a favourite between India and Australia for the forthcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024/25 edition, to be held later this year in Australia. Since the 2016/17 edition, India have not lost the BGT and Rohit Sharma-led side will be eager to make it three successive Test series win on Australian soil when they tour Down Under in the upcoming Aussie summer. Hayden, the former left-handed batter, didn't pick a favourite and stated that had Cheteshwar Pujara been a part of the Indian batting line-up, he would've given the edge to India. On the sidelines of the CEAT Cricket Rating Awards, held in Mumbai on Wednesday (Aug 21), Hayden told PTI, ""You look at the lineups, and it's hard to really tell who has the edge. I sense that it's going to be runs that are going to be the point of difference. Guys that are sure bets have retired, like (Cheteshwar) Pujara was a sure bet in Australian conditions." He further opined, "Was he exciting? No. Was he effective? Heck, yes. When you look back over the years, guys like Raul Dravid, VVS Laxman... they were really sure bets in our market. The best need to stand up in this series, runs are going to be at a premium." Also read: There is a reason I won five IPL trophies: Rohit Sharma eager to keep 'winning' post T20 WC success Notably, Pujara was the difference between both sides when Virat Kohli-led India created history by becoming the first-ever Asian side to win a Test series in Australia in 2018/19. The right-hander, who last played for India during the WTC 2023 final, ended as the Player-of-the-Series with 521 runs in four Tests at 74.42, including three centuries and one fifty. In the 2020/21 BGT in Australia, Pujara once again played a valuable hand by scoring 271 runs at an average of 33.87 with three half-centuries. He was also among runs in the home Tests in the 2016/17 edition, with a best of 202. Pujara, a veteran of 103 Tests, has 7,195 runs in the purest format, at an average of 43.60. He, however, hasn't been in India's scheme of things in Tests since mid-2023 and also not been named for the upcoming Duleep Trophy tournament.

Border-Gavaskar Trophy: Matthew Hayden refuses to pick India as favourite due to THIS batter's absence

Indian all-rounder R Ashwin has revealed it was captain Rohit Sharma and head coach Rahul Dravid who stepped up big time when he had to leave the Rajkot Test midway to go and tend to his ailing mother.

Indian all-rounder R Ashwin has revealed it was captain Rohit Sharma and head coach Rahul Dravid who stepped up big time when he had to leave the Rajkot Test midway to go and tend to his ailing mother. Ashwin said Rohit helped arrange a private plane that took him to Chennai. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ashwin said he was waiting for his parents' call after picking up the 500th wicket, earlier in the day. "Around 7 pm, I called my wife before going to shower. My parents did not pick up the calls. And I found my wife's voice was breaking. She asked me to move away from my teammates and then she told me that my mother collapsed after a severe headache." Ashwin said he contemplated returning home but couldn't find a flight as Rajkot Airport shuts down by 6 pm. It was then that Rohit came to his rescue and helped arrange the flight. "Rohit and Rahul bhai (brother) came to my room. Rohit saw me thinking and he said 'what are you thinking about? Just pack your bags and leave now'. He told me that he would try and arrange a charter flight for me," said Ashwin. "A big thank you to Cheteshwar Pujara. He spoke to a lot of people and arranged for the charter flight. I didn't know how I spent 2 hours in that flight back home," he added. Also read | ‘You should go back’: R Ashwin reveals how his hospitalised mother urged him to return to Rajkot Test 'Even Dhoni does that but he takes 10 steps more' Ashwin said Rohit asked team physio Kamlesh to accompany him but he refused as the team only had two physios. "Rohit is like 'That's okay'. But I told Kamlesh to stay back with the team. However, when I went down to the lobby, Kamlesh and a security person were standing there. Rohit was calling Kamlesh and keeping a tab on me throughout the journey back home." Ashwin said he was extremely grateful to Rohit and wished god gave him more. “I’ve played under several captains and leaders, but it is his (Rohit’s) good heart that has made him what he is today – someone with five IPL titles as equal to Dhoni. God doesn’t give it easy. He should get something bigger than all that." "I already had respect for him as a leader, he backs a player without question until the last moment. It’s not an easy thing. Even Dhoni does that. But he takes 10 steps more.” Ashwin returned after the brief visit home and played a major part in the remainder of the series which India won 4-1. (With inputs from agencies)

R Ashwin shares how Rohit Sharma looked after him during his mother’s hospitalisation

Shubman Gill (110) and Rohit Sharma (103) headlined India's charge on Day 2 of the fifth and final Test versus England in Dharamsala on Friday (March 8). After the visitors&nbsp;were all-out for 218 on the opening day, India strengthened their position by reaching 473-8 at stumps on Friday --&nbsp;leading by 255 --&nbsp;after a solid foundation provided by Gill and skipper Rohit. As India have a solid chance to end the five Test-match series&nbsp;with a 4-1 scoreline, Gill's father reflected on his son's return to form but stated that he isn't pleased with the right-hander opting to bat at No. 3.

It is to be noted that Gill chose to bat at No. 3 in Tests after Yashasvi Jaiswal came into the picture, since the West Indies tour last year. While the 24-year-old took a lot of time to get going at his new position, he has come to his usual best since the second Test of the ongoing home series versus Ben Stokes &amp; Co.&nbsp;

Gill's father Lakhwinder opined on what led to his son's return to form. Speaking to PTI, he said, "Stepping out has made a big difference, he had stopped doing that and that created pressure. Since his U-16 days, he has been stepping out to the spinners and pacers as well to cut the movement."

"The moment you don't play your natural game you are in trouble. The whole game is about confidence, when you get one good innings you are back to your best. Since his U-16 days, he used to make tons of runs,"&nbsp;Lakhwinder said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dharamsala-test-rohit-gill-floor-england-with-twin-tons-on-day-two-bashir-shines-for-england-698055">Dharamsala Test: Rohit, Gill floor England with twin tons on day two; Bashir shines for visitors</a>

<h2>'It suits&nbsp;Cheteshwar Pujara who has a defensive game'</h2>

Lakhwinder also&nbsp;revealed that he isn't happy with Shubman coming one down. "He should have continued to open. It is not right at all I feel. When you sit in dressing room for longer, the pressure tends&nbsp;to increase. Number 3 is not opening neither it is a middle-order spot."

"Plus his game his not like that, it suits the likes of Cheteshwar Pujara who has a defensive game. When the ball is new you get more loose balls, when you come in after 5-7 overs, the ball is still shiny and the bowler is also settled with his length."&nbsp;

He, however, added, "I don't interfere in his decisions. I just train with him. He is old enough to make his own decsions. I made decisions on his behalf only when he was a teenager."

<h2>'I'm hoping that he is proud of my effort'</h2>

Meanwhile, Gill opined on his knock and spoke about his father's presence in the stands during the second day's play in Dharamsala. After stumps, he told the broadcasters, "It was my first time that he's (talking about his father) watching me play (in an international game). It was his vision (to play Test cricket) and I'm hoping that he is proud of my effort today."

This became Gill's fourth Test century overall, second while batting at No. 3. He has been in superb form in the England series, in the absence of senior batters, and will be content with his overall effort. For now, Gill has secured the No. 3 spot in whites.

Shubman Gill (110) and Rohit Sharma (103) headlined India's charge on Day 2 of the fifth and final Test versus England in Dharamsala on Friday (March 8). After the visitors were all-out for 218 on the opening day, India strengthened their position by reaching 473-8 at stumps on Friday -- leading by 255 -- after a solid foundation provided by Gill and skipper Rohit.

Shubman Gill (110) and Rohit Sharma (103) headlined India's charge on Day 2 of the fifth and final Test versus England in Dharamsala on Friday (March 8). After the visitors were all-out for 218 on the opening day, India strengthened their position by reaching 473-8 at stumps on Friday -- leading by 255 -- after a solid foundation provided by Gill and skipper Rohit. As India have a solid chance to end the five Test-match series with a 4-1 scoreline, Gill's father reflected on his son's return to form but stated that he isn't pleased with the right-hander opting to bat at No. 3. It is to be noted that Gill chose to bat at No. 3 in Tests after Yashasvi Jaiswal came into the picture, since the West Indies tour last year. While the 24-year-old took a lot of time to get going at his new position, he has come to his usual best since the second Test of the ongoing home series versus Ben Stokes & Co. Gill's father Lakhwinder opined on what led to his son's return to form. Speaking to PTI, he said, "Stepping out has made a big difference, he had stopped doing that and that created pressure. Since his U-16 days, he has been stepping out to the spinners and pacers as well to cut the movement." "The moment you don't play your natural game you are in trouble. The whole game is about confidence, when you get one good innings you are back to your best. Since his U-16 days, he used to make tons of runs," Lakhwinder said. Also read: Dharamsala Test: Rohit, Gill floor England with twin tons on day two; Bashir shines for visitors 'It suits Cheteshwar Pujara who has a defensive game' Lakhwinder also revealed that he isn't happy with Shubman coming one down. "He should have continued to open. It is not right at all I feel. When you sit in dressing room for longer, the pressure tends to increase. Number 3 is not opening neither it is a middle-order spot." "Plus his game his not like that, it suits the likes of Cheteshwar Pujara who has a defensive game. When the ball is new you get more loose balls, when you come in after 5-7 overs, the ball is still shiny and the bowler is also settled with his length." He, however, added, "I don't interfere in his decisions. I just train with him. He is old enough to make his own decsions. I made decisions on his behalf only when he was a teenager." 'I'm hoping that he is proud of my effort' Meanwhile, Gill opined on his knock and spoke about his father's presence in the stands during the second day's play in Dharamsala. After stumps, he told the broadcasters, "It was my first time that he's (talking about his father) watching me play (in an international game). It was his vision (to play Test cricket) and I'm hoping that he is proud of my effort today." This became Gill's fourth Test century overall, second while batting at No. 3. He has been in superb form in the England series, in the absence of senior batters, and will be content with his overall effort. For now, Gill has secured the No. 3 spot in whites.

'It suits Pujara...': Shubman Gill's father not pleased with him batting at No. 3 despite Dharamsala Test ton

Former England pacer Stuart Broad has questioned non-selection of India batter Cheteshwar Pujara in the ongoing five-Test series. Broad's comments came on the back of Virat Kohli missing the series and India's poor show with the bat on day 2 (Feb 24) of the fourth Test in Ranchi. India were trailing by 134 runs at the end of day's play with Dhruv Jurel (30) and Kuldeep Yadav (17) on the crease as the hosts finished the day on 219/7.

"With the experience &amp; world class talent of Kohli missing, would there have been temptation to bring back Pujara into this India batting line up? Or is his international career over? Feels like he could have brought some consistency and an anchor," Broad asked in a post on social media platform X.

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With the experience &amp; world class talent of Kohli missing, would there have been temptation to bring back Pujara into this India batting line up? Or is his international career over? Feels like he could have brought some consistency and an anchor ⚓️
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Skipper Rohit Sharma was first Indian wicket to fall off James Anderson as India headed to lunch at 34/1 after bowling England out for 353 in the first innings on Saturday. Shubman Gill (38) and Yashasvi Jaiswal (73) then added 82 runs for the second wicket to steady the ship before Bashir trapped Gill LBW. Rajat Patidar and Ravindra Jadeja were next to fall, both to Bashir, as India lost three wickets in the second session for less than 100 runs.

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Starting the last session at 131/4, Jaiswal's big wicket was also claimed by Bashir as India became five down at just 161. Tom Hartley then took the wickets of Sarfaraz Khan and Ravi Ashwin to leave the hosts reeling at 177/7.&nbsp;

Jurel and spinner Kuldeep then added unbeaten 42 runs for the eighth wicket to frustrate England who were looking set to get a big lead after the Hatley's twin wickets.

Notably, Kohli has taken leave of absence from the series due to personal reasons (his second child's birth with wife Anushka Sharma) and it has weakened India's middle order.

Former England pacer Stuart Broad has questioned non-selection of India batter Cheteshwar Pujara in the ongoing five-Test series. Broad's comments came on the back of Virat Kohli missing the series and India's poor show with the bat on day 2 (Feb 24) of the fourth Test in Ranchi.

Former England pacer Stuart Broad has questioned non-selection of India batter Cheteshwar Pujara in the ongoing five-Test series. Broad's comments came on the back of Virat Kohli missing the series and India's poor show with the bat on day 2 (Feb 24) of the fourth Test in Ranchi. India were trailing by 134 runs at the end of day's play with Dhruv Jurel (30) and Kuldeep Yadav (17) on the crease as the hosts finished the day on 219/7. "With the experience & world class talent of Kohli missing, would there have been temptation to bring back Pujara into this India batting line up? Or is his international career over? Feels like he could have brought some consistency and an anchor," Broad asked in a post on social media platform X. With the experience & world class talent of Kohli missing, would there have been temptation to bring back Pujara into this India batting line up? Or is his international career over? Feels like he could have brought some consistency and an anchor ⚓️ — Stuart Broad (@StuartBroad8) February 24, 2024 × Skipper Rohit Sharma was first Indian wicket to fall off James Anderson as India headed to lunch at 34/1 after bowling England out for 353 in the first innings on Saturday. Shubman Gill (38) and Yashasvi Jaiswal (73) then added 82 runs for the second wicket to steady the ship before Bashir trapped Gill LBW. Rajat Patidar and Ravindra Jadeja were next to fall, both to Bashir, as India lost three wickets in the second session for less than 100 runs. Also Watch: PSL 2024: Pakistan batter Babar Azam loses cool, mimics 'bottle throw' after being trolled by fans Starting the last session at 131/4, Jaiswal's big wicket was also claimed by Bashir as India became five down at just 161. Tom Hartley then took the wickets of Sarfaraz Khan and Ravi Ashwin to leave the hosts reeling at 177/7. Jurel and spinner Kuldeep then added unbeaten 42 runs for the eighth wicket to frustrate England who were looking set to get a big lead after the Hatley's twin wickets. Notably, Kohli has taken leave of absence from the series due to personal reasons (his second child's birth with wife Anushka Sharma) and it has weakened India's middle order.

IND vs ENG, 4th Test: Stuart Broad questions non-selection of Cheteshwar Pujara after India’s batting failure

The Saurashtra Cricket Association (SCA) president, Jaydev Shah, announced that they will felicitate Ravindra Jadeja and Cheteshwar Pujara for their contribution to Indian cricket ahead of the third Test between India and England in Rajkot. Pujara and Jadeja have made their state and country proud on countless occasions, with both being the senior members of this decorated Indian Team.

While Pujara is the 13th Indian cricketer to complete 100 plus Tests, Jadeja is a seasoned campaigner and a match-winner across all formats. The left-handed Jadeja holds the number one position in the ICC’s Test all-rounder rankings and is a Champions Trophy winner (in 2013).&nbsp;

As the Rajkot stadium is set to be renamed the Niranjan Shah Stadium, the state association will felicitate both players during the name-announcing ceremony on Thursday (Feb 15) - day one of the third India-England Test.

“We will be felicitating both Pujara and Ravindra during the function for the new name of the stadium,” SCA President Jaydev Shah said.

Meanwhile, Jadeja and Pujara are not named on the squad list for the remaining three Tests, with Jadeja out with injury and Pujara, despite scoring runs for Saurashtra in the Ranji Trophy, being overlooked for younger players.&nbsp;

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Jaydev said he would have loved to have both playing for India in the third Test but understands the reason behind their omissions, saying it’s all part of the game.

“I can’t say much on that (Pujara not playing) because it’s the team management and selectors’ call, but had he been there, we would have been very proud.”&nbsp;

“It’s not that we are not proud now, but we would have been prouder had he played. He has played over 100 Test matches and not many have managed to do that in India. Him playing at Rajkot would have been great, but that’s part of the game. You don’t get everything what you dream. He has worked very hard. He made Saurashtra very proud,” Jaydev added.

<h2>India eyes lead in Rajkot</h2>

After losing the first Test in Hyderabad, India levelled the five-match series by winning the next game in Vizag by 106 runs.&nbsp;

Yashasvi Jaiswal slammed his maiden double hundred in the first innings, and the new number three Shubman Gill completed a century in the next.

However, the Man of the Match performance came from Jasprit Bumrah, who picked nine wickets, including a six-for in the first innings.

The Saurashtra Cricket Association (SCA) president, Jaydev Shah, announced that they will felicitate Ravindra Jadeja and Cheteshwar Pujara for their contribution to Indian cricket ahead of the third Test between India and England in Rajkot.

The Saurashtra Cricket Association (SCA) president, Jaydev Shah, announced that they will felicitate Ravindra Jadeja and Cheteshwar Pujara for their contribution to Indian cricket ahead of the third Test between India and England in Rajkot. Pujara and Jadeja have made their state and country proud on countless occasions, with both being the senior members of this decorated Indian Team. While Pujara is the 13th Indian cricketer to complete 100 plus Tests, Jadeja is a seasoned campaigner and a match-winner across all formats. The left-handed Jadeja holds the number one position in the ICC’s Test all-rounder rankings and is a Champions Trophy winner (in 2013). As the Rajkot stadium is set to be renamed the Niranjan Shah Stadium, the state association will felicitate both players during the name-announcing ceremony on Thursday (Feb 15) - day one of the third India-England Test. “We will be felicitating both Pujara and Ravindra during the function for the new name of the stadium,” SCA President Jaydev Shah said. Meanwhile, Jadeja and Pujara are not named on the squad list for the remaining three Tests, with Jadeja out with injury and Pujara, despite scoring runs for Saurashtra in the Ranji Trophy, being overlooked for younger players. ALSO READ: PCB unhappy with Babar, Shaheen’s latest interaction session with fans on X, to revisit social media policy Jaydev said he would have loved to have both playing for India in the third Test but understands the reason behind their omissions, saying it’s all part of the game. “I can’t say much on that (Pujara not playing) because it’s the team management and selectors’ call, but had he been there, we would have been very proud.” “It’s not that we are not proud now, but we would have been prouder had he played. He has played over 100 Test matches and not many have managed to do that in India. Him playing at Rajkot would have been great, but that’s part of the game. You don’t get everything what you dream. He has worked very hard. He made Saurashtra very proud,” Jaydev added. India eyes lead in Rajkot After losing the first Test in Hyderabad, India levelled the five-match series by winning the next game in Vizag by 106 runs. Yashasvi Jaiswal slammed his maiden double hundred in the first innings, and the new number three Shubman Gill completed a century in the next. However, the Man of the Match performance came from Jasprit Bumrah, who picked nine wickets, including a six-for in the first innings.

Saurashtra Cricket Association to felicitate Ravindra Jadeja and Cheteshwar Pujara ahead of Rajkot Test

India veteran Cheteshwar Pujara continues to break records in first-class cricket after being overlooked for upcoming home Tests against England. In Ranji Trophy - India's premier first-class (FC) tournament - Pujara crossed 20,000 runs on Sunday (January 21). He's the fourth Indian batter to do so after Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid and Sunil Gavaskar. Pujara reached the milestone during Saurashtra's win over Vidarbha.

The 35-year-old now has 20,013 runs in 260 FC games at an average of 51.98 with 61 hundreds and 78 fifties. His highest in the FC games is a staggering 352. Among the batters who are in the club, Gavaskar tops the list with 25,896 runs with Sachin (25,396 runs) and Dravid (23, 794) behind him.

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Talking about Pujara, the batter recently entered the record books with his 17th double hundred in first-class cricket. He reached the milestone against Jharkhand on January 7 while batting for Saurashtra in the opening round of Ranji Trophy.

The double hundred was Pujara's eighth in the Ranji Trophy - second only to Paras Dogra's nine. In international Tests, Pujara has scored three double hundreds. His rest of six double tons have come in various domestic tournaments across the world, including English county cricket.

For India, Pujara has played 103 Tests, scoring 7,195 runs at an average of 43 with 19 hundreds and 35 fifties. The batter last played a Test for India in June 2023 - the World Test Championship (WTC) Final 2023 against Australia. He could not make an impact in the game, scoring 14 and 27 in two innings as India lost by 209 runs.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) then dropped the batter for the next two series - against West Indies in July 2023 and against South Africa which concluded recently. Shubman Gill was given Pujara's number three position in both the series as Yashasvi Jaiswal opened the batting alongside skipper Rohit Sharma.

India veteran Cheteshwar Pujara continues to break records in first-class cricket after being overlooked for upcoming home Tests against England. In Ranji Trophy - India's premier first-class (FC) tournament - Pujara crossed 20,000 runs on Sunday (January 21).

India veteran Cheteshwar Pujara continues to break records in first-class cricket after being overlooked for upcoming home Tests against England. In Ranji Trophy - India's premier first-class (FC) tournament - Pujara crossed 20,000 runs on Sunday (January 21). He's the fourth Indian batter to do so after Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid and Sunil Gavaskar. Pujara reached the milestone during Saurashtra's win over Vidarbha. The 35-year-old now has 20,013 runs in 260 FC games at an average of 51.98 with 61 hundreds and 78 fifties. His highest in the FC games is a staggering 352. Among the batters who are in the club, Gavaskar tops the list with 25,896 runs with Sachin (25,396 runs) and Dravid (23, 794) behind him. Also Read: England batter Harry Brook withdraws from upcoming India series, announces board Talking about Pujara, the batter recently entered the record books with his 17th double hundred in first-class cricket. He reached the milestone against Jharkhand on January 7 while batting for Saurashtra in the opening round of Ranji Trophy. The double hundred was Pujara's eighth in the Ranji Trophy - second only to Paras Dogra's nine. In international Tests, Pujara has scored three double hundreds. His rest of six double tons have come in various domestic tournaments across the world, including English county cricket. For India, Pujara has played 103 Tests, scoring 7,195 runs at an average of 43 with 19 hundreds and 35 fifties. The batter last played a Test for India in June 2023 - the World Test Championship (WTC) Final 2023 against Australia. He could not make an impact in the game, scoring 14 and 27 in two innings as India lost by 209 runs. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) then dropped the batter for the next two series - against West Indies in July 2023 and against South Africa which concluded recently. Shubman Gill was given Pujara's number three position in both the series as Yashasvi Jaiswal opened the batting alongside skipper Rohit Sharma.

Cheteshwar Pujara joins Sachin, Dravid and Gavaskar in elite list after England series snub

Ahead of Ben Stokes-led England's five Tests versus India, in India, former English spinner Graeme Swann recalled his side's historic red-ball series triumph in India in 2012-13. Back then, Alastair Cook-led England won their maiden Test series on Indian soil after 28 years, beating MS Dhoni-led India 2-1 in four Tests. During the tour, England spinners&nbsp;Swann (20 scalps -- joint-most) and&nbsp;Monty Panesar (17 wickets) were the top performers along with Cook (562 runs) and Kevin Pietersen (338 runs)

Swann recalled England's historic Test series win. He has urged the current crop of English cricketers to not take on Virat Kohli, who revels in on-field battle, while recalling an interesting episode from the 2012-13 series. In addition, he&nbsp;named the Indian batter against whom he didn't enjoy bowling.

Swann said in a Sky Sports Cricket podcast, "We had been told beforehand to not say anything to this bloke (Virat Kohli) because he absolutely revels in a battle in the field and he loves chasing down totals. We knew what he could do in the white-ball format but back then he hadn't really done anything in Test cricket."

"Steven Finn got driven for a couple of incredible fours and he lost the plot and had a go at him and realised his mistake straight away. Virat roared up like a tiger and Finn just doubled down and got smashed everywhere."

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Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/if-rohit-kohli-have-ordinary-ipl-gavaskar-on-indias-possible-t20-wc-squad-makes-bold-suggestion-678940">‘If Rohit, Kohli have ordinary IPL…’: Gavaskar on India's possible T20 WC squad, makes BOLD suggestion</a>

During the 2012-13 series, Kohli took time to get going in the first three Tests but slammed an impressive 103 in the fourth and final Test in Nagpur, also stitching a vital 198-run stand with then skipper MS Dhoni (99). The Test ended in a draw as England won the series with a 2-1 lead already in their grasp.

Swann added, "I got him (Kohli) out in the first Test but often you had to bowl the perfect ball to dismiss him. The one batter I didn't like bowling to was (Cheteshwar) Pujara because was very nimble on his feet.

"It's strange when I look back at the team they had -- VVS Laxman, Virender Sehwag, Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli -- and the one that I didn't like bowling to was Pujara."

This time around, England have their task cut-out to replicate their side's past success against Rohit Sharma-led Indian team. India have not lost a Test series at home since their 2012-13 defeat to England.

The first of the five-match Test series kicks off in Hyderabad on Jan 25.&nbsp;

Ahead of Ben Stokes-led England's five Tests versus India, in India, former English spinner Graeme Swann recalled his side's historic red-ball series triumph in India in 2012-13.

Ahead of Ben Stokes-led England's five Tests versus India, in India, former English spinner Graeme Swann recalled his side's historic red-ball series triumph in India in 2012-13. Back then, Alastair Cook-led England won their maiden Test series on Indian soil after 28 years, beating MS Dhoni-led India 2-1 in four Tests. During the tour, England spinners Swann (20 scalps -- joint-most) and Monty Panesar (17 wickets) were the top performers along with Cook (562 runs) and Kevin Pietersen (338 runs) Swann recalled England's historic Test series win. He has urged the current crop of English cricketers to not take on Virat Kohli, who revels in on-field battle, while recalling an interesting episode from the 2012-13 series. In addition, he named the Indian batter against whom he didn't enjoy bowling. Swann said in a Sky Sports Cricket podcast, "We had been told beforehand to not say anything to this bloke (Virat Kohli) because he absolutely revels in a battle in the field and he loves chasing down totals. We knew what he could do in the white-ball format but back then he hadn't really done anything in Test cricket." "Steven Finn got driven for a couple of incredible fours and he lost the plot and had a go at him and realised his mistake straight away. Virat roared up like a tiger and Finn just doubled down and got smashed everywhere." × Also read: ‘If Rohit, Kohli have ordinary IPL…’: Gavaskar on India's possible T20 WC squad, makes BOLD suggestion During the 2012-13 series, Kohli took time to get going in the first three Tests but slammed an impressive 103 in the fourth and final Test in Nagpur, also stitching a vital 198-run stand with then skipper MS Dhoni (99). The Test ended in a draw as England won the series with a 2-1 lead already in their grasp. Swann added, "I got him (Kohli) out in the first Test but often you had to bowl the perfect ball to dismiss him. The one batter I didn't like bowling to was (Cheteshwar) Pujara because was very nimble on his feet. "It's strange when I look back at the team they had -- VVS Laxman, Virender Sehwag, Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli -- and the one that I didn't like bowling to was Pujara." This time around, England have their task cut-out to replicate their side's past success against Rohit Sharma-led Indian team. India have not lost a Test series at home since their 2012-13 defeat to England. The first of the five-match Test series kicks off in Hyderabad on Jan 25.

Kohli enjoys on-field battle, didn't like bowling to Pujara: Swann recalls ENG's 2012 Test series win in India

India veteran batter Cheteshwar Pujara entered the record books with his 17th double hundred in first-class cricket. Pujara reached the milestone against Jharkhand on January 7 while batting for Saurashtra in the opening round of Ranji Trophy - India's premier domestic tournament. With the double ton, Pujara also drew equal with Englishmen Herbert Sutcliffe and Mark Ramprakash, both of whom have 17 double hundreds each.&nbsp;

Overall, the India batter is joint fourth on the list of most double hundreds in first-class cricket behind Aussie Don Bradman (37), Wally Hammond (36) and Patsy Hendren (22), both from England.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/india-are-powerhouse-ravi-ashwin-slams-ex-england-skipper-michael-vaughan-for-underachieving-side-comment-677405">Ravi Ashwin slams ex-England skipper Michael Vaughan for 'underachieving side' comment</a>

The double hundred was Pujara's eighth in the Ranji Trophy - second only to Paras Dogra's nine. In international Tests, Pujara has scored three double hundreds. His rest of six double tons have come in various domestic tournaments across the world including English county cricket.

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𝗗𝗼𝘂𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗗𝗲𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗖𝗵𝗲𝘁𝗲𝘀𝗵𝘄𝗮𝗿 𝗣𝘂𝗷𝗮𝗿𝗮! 💯💯 
 
A spectacular 2⃣0⃣0⃣ in Rajkot from the Saurashtra batter! 👏👏 
 
Follow the match ▶️ <a href="https://t.co/xYOBkksyYt">https://t.co/xYOBkksyYt</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RanjiTrophy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RanjiTrophy</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAUvJHA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAUvJHA</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/IDFCFIRSTBank?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IDFCFIRSTBank</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/saucricket?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@saucricket</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/cheteshwar1?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@cheteshwar1</a> <a href="https://t.co/ofLZSf2qcl">pic.twitter.com/ofLZSf2qcl</a>
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The double ton comes at a time for Pujara when he is looking to make a comeback in the Indian team. The batter last played a Test for India in June 2023 - the World Test Championship (WTC) Final 2023 against Australia. He could not make an impact in the game, scoring 14 and 27 in two innings as India lost by 209 runs.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) then dropped the batter for the next two series - against West Indies in July 2023 and against South Africa which concluded recently. Shubman Gill was given Pujara's number three position in both the series as Yashasvi Jaiswal opened the batting alongside skipper Rohit Sharma.

Overall, Pujara has been an stalwart for the Indian cricket in Tests. He has played 103 Tests in career so far, scoring 7,195 runs at an average of 43.60 with 19 hundreds and 35 fifties.

India's next Test assignment is a five-match series at home against England from January 25. With at least two more Ranji games to follow before the squad for England Tests are announced, Pujara would be hoping to put up a show in his bid to make a comeback.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

India veteran batter Cheteshwar Pujara entered the record books with his 17th double hundred in first-class cricket. Pujara reached the milestone against Jharkhand on January 7 while batting for Saurashtra in the opening round of Ranji Trophy - India's premier domestic tournament.

India veteran batter Cheteshwar Pujara entered the record books with his 17th double hundred in first-class cricket. Pujara reached the milestone against Jharkhand on January 7 while batting for Saurashtra in the opening round of Ranji Trophy - India's premier domestic tournament. With the double ton, Pujara also drew equal with Englishmen Herbert Sutcliffe and Mark Ramprakash, both of whom have 17 double hundreds each. Overall, the India batter is joint fourth on the list of most double hundreds in first-class cricket behind Aussie Don Bradman (37), Wally Hammond (36) and Patsy Hendren (22), both from England. Also Read: Ravi Ashwin slams ex-England skipper Michael Vaughan for 'underachieving side' comment The double hundred was Pujara's eighth in the Ranji Trophy - second only to Paras Dogra's nine. In international Tests, Pujara has scored three double hundreds. His rest of six double tons have come in various domestic tournaments across the world including English county cricket. 𝗗𝗼𝘂𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗗𝗲𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗖𝗵𝗲𝘁𝗲𝘀𝗵𝘄𝗮𝗿 𝗣𝘂𝗷𝗮𝗿𝗮! 💯💯 A spectacular 2⃣0⃣0⃣ in Rajkot from the Saurashtra batter! 👏👏 Follow the match ▶️ https://t.co/xYOBkksyYt#RanjiTrophy | #SAUvJHA | @IDFCFIRSTBank | @saucricket | @cheteshwar1 pic.twitter.com/ofLZSf2qcl — BCCI Domestic (@BCCIdomestic) January 7, 2024 × The double ton comes at a time for Pujara when he is looking to make a comeback in the Indian team. The batter last played a Test for India in June 2023 - the World Test Championship (WTC) Final 2023 against Australia. He could not make an impact in the game, scoring 14 and 27 in two innings as India lost by 209 runs. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) then dropped the batter for the next two series - against West Indies in July 2023 and against South Africa which concluded recently. Shubman Gill was given Pujara's number three position in both the series as Yashasvi Jaiswal opened the batting alongside skipper Rohit Sharma. Overall, Pujara has been an stalwart for the Indian cricket in Tests. He has played 103 Tests in career so far, scoring 7,195 runs at an average of 43.60 with 19 hundreds and 35 fifties. India's next Test assignment is a five-match series at home against England from January 25. With at least two more Ranji games to follow before the squad for England Tests are announced, Pujara would be hoping to put up a show in his bid to make a comeback.

India batter Cheteshwar Pujara enters record books with 17th double hundred in first-class cricket - WATCH

The BCCI selection committee, headed by Ajit Agarkar, announced India's 16-member squad for the upcoming two-match Test series versus South Africa, to be held in the African nation. Rohit Sharma will lead the side comprising the experience of R Ashwin, Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, and KL Rahul (who returns in the red-ball setup after his injury) whereas the likes of Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane sit out.&nbsp; Bumrah has been named as Rohit's deputy.

Pujara was not part of India's last Test series --&nbsp;where they beat West Indies 1-0 in the Caribbean island early this year. Rahane, who retained his place for the WI series post his impressive comeback in the 2021-23 WTC final, is also out of the squad. His scores in the WI Tests were 3 and 8.

Pujara continues to remain out of contention after his lengthy&nbsp;barren run. He managed to break his four-year-long century drought during the Bangladesh Tests in Dec 2022, but since then only managed one fifty-plus score. In addition,&nbsp;his twin failures in the WTC final, in June, led to his omission.

Youngsters such as Ishan Kishan, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Shubman Gill and inexperienced pacers namely Mukesh Kumar and Prasidh Krishna have been preferred as the selection committee have one eye on the future.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/winning-t20-world-cup-is-priority-long-term-planning-can-wait-bcci-official-on-dravids-contract-extension-664694">Winning T20 World Cup is priority, long-term planning can wait: BCCI official on Dravid’s contract extension</a>

The two Tests hold a lot of significance for India in the ongoing ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 cycle. The series, which kicks off with the Boxing Day Test on Dec 26 and have its finale on Jan 3,&nbsp;will also mark the beginning of Rahul Dravid's second stint as India's head coach.

He agreed to BCCI's extension offer after his tenure was officially over post the home ODI World Cup.&nbsp;

The last time India played Tests in South Africa was in late 2021-early 2022, when they lost 1-2. It led to Kohli's resignation as the Test captain.&nbsp;

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India’s squad for 2 Tests: Rohit Sharma (C), Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ishan Kishan (wk), KL Rahul (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Mohd. Siraj, Mukesh Kumar, Mohd. Shami*, Jasprit Bumrah (VC), Prasidh…
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India Test squad for two Tests versus South Africa:

Rohit Sharma (C), Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ishan Kishan (wk), KL Rahul (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Mohd. Siraj, Mukesh Kumar, Mohd. Shami*, Jasprit Bumrah (VC), Prasidh Krishna.

Note: Shami's availability is subject to fitness. He is currently undergoing medical treatment.

The BCCI selection committee, headed by Ajit Agarkar, announced India's 16-member squad for the upcoming two-match Test series versus South Africa, to be held in the African nation.

The BCCI selection committee, headed by Ajit Agarkar, announced India's 16-member squad for the upcoming two-match Test series versus South Africa, to be held in the African nation. Rohit Sharma will lead the side comprising the experience of R Ashwin, Virat Kohli, Jasprit Bumrah, and KL Rahul (who returns in the red-ball setup after his injury) whereas the likes of Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane sit out. Bumrah has been named as Rohit's deputy. Pujara was not part of India's last Test series -- where they beat West Indies 1-0 in the Caribbean island early this year. Rahane, who retained his place for the WI series post his impressive comeback in the 2021-23 WTC final, is also out of the squad. His scores in the WI Tests were 3 and 8. Pujara continues to remain out of contention after his lengthy barren run. He managed to break his four-year-long century drought during the Bangladesh Tests in Dec 2022, but since then only managed one fifty-plus score. In addition, his twin failures in the WTC final, in June, led to his omission. Youngsters such as Ishan Kishan, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Shubman Gill and inexperienced pacers namely Mukesh Kumar and Prasidh Krishna have been preferred as the selection committee have one eye on the future. Also read: Winning T20 World Cup is priority, long-term planning can wait: BCCI official on Dravid’s contract extension The two Tests hold a lot of significance for India in the ongoing ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 cycle. The series, which kicks off with the Boxing Day Test on Dec 26 and have its finale on Jan 3, will also mark the beginning of Rahul Dravid's second stint as India's head coach. He agreed to BCCI's extension offer after his tenure was officially over post the home ODI World Cup. The last time India played Tests in South Africa was in late 2021-early 2022, when they lost 1-2. It led to Kohli's resignation as the Test captain. India’s squad for 2 Tests: Rohit Sharma (C), Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ishan Kishan (wk), KL Rahul (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Mohd. Siraj, Mukesh Kumar, Mohd. Shami*, Jasprit Bumrah (VC), Prasidh… — BCCI (@BCCI) November 30, 2023 × India Test squad for two Tests versus South Africa: Rohit Sharma (C), Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ishan Kishan (wk), KL Rahul (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Mohd. Siraj, Mukesh Kumar, Mohd. Shami*, Jasprit Bumrah (VC), Prasidh Krishna. Note: Shami's availability is subject to fitness. He is currently undergoing medical treatment.

SA vs Ind: BCCI announces 16-man Test squad, Rohit to lead with Bumrah named deputy, big stars miss out

A modern-day Test great, Cheteshwar Pujara, admitted he was frustrated over facing the axe from Test format now and then. The stalwart of 103 Tests, Pujara said even after giving everything to this game and doing it for the team, he has to prove himself again. The right-handed batter last played during the World Test Championship Final against Australia and got dropped from the Test side after that, missing the two-match Test series against West Indies.

Having returned to playing County for Sussex, Pujara, in a recent conversation with The Final Word Podcast, said he has been through ups and downs in his career, but at this stage, where he played over 100 Tests and scored over 7000 runs, getting dropped from the Test pinches more.&nbsp;

The right heir to Rahul Dravid for India at the number three position, Pujara added the challenge will always remain but is optimistic about making a comeback into the Test side, as he believes he still belongs there.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/you-need-flexibility-every-player-must-bat-anywhere-in-batting-order-rohit-on-indian-squad-for-asia-cup-627524">You need flexibility, every player must bat anywhere in batting order: Rohit on Indian squad for Asia Cup</a>

"There have been ups and downs in the last few years, and it tests you as a player because having played say more than 90 Test matches when I got dropped, I still had to prove myself, I still had to prove that I belonged there. It’s a different type of challenge," Pujara told The Final Word podcast on the sidelines of his county stint with Sussex.&nbsp;

"Sometimes you do get frustrated, even if you have to prove yourself after 90 Tests and five-six thousand, whatever number of runs I had scored, it’s not easy.

Pujara said having attained success at the international level, after proving yourself in every country, getting sidelined plays a little with the ego.

"Sometimes it plays around with your ego. Having been successful at the international level for so many years, there are still doubts - are you good enough? And if you have to prove yourself again and again, [you wonder] whether it is worth it," Pujara added.

<h2>'I still have a lot to contribute'</h2>

With India set to tour South Africa later this year and England touring India for five Test early next year, Rohit Sharma-led side will need a solid number three to make things work on both occasions, and who better than Pujara?

The Test star said he believes his comeback is near, as his contributions to the team are there to see for everyone.

"I keep telling myself that I know I belong there," Pujara said.&nbsp;

"I know that the kind of contributions I have made to Indian cricket, I still have a lot to contribute. I was given an interesting stat some time ago where I was told that whenever I have scored more than 70 or 80 runs for the Indian team, it is about 80% of the times India have gone on to win... or we haven't lost that particular Test match. So I know if I score runs for the Indian team, most times we are on the winning side,” he added.

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A modern-day Test great, Cheteshwar Pujara, admitted he was frustrated over facing the axe from Test format now and then. The stalwart of 103 Tests, Pujara said even after giving everything to this game and doing it for the team, he has to prove himself again.

A modern-day Test great, Cheteshwar Pujara, admitted he was frustrated over facing the axe from Test format now and then. The stalwart of 103 Tests, Pujara said even after giving everything to this game and doing it for the team, he has to prove himself again. The right-handed batter last played during the World Test Championship Final against Australia and got dropped from the Test side after that, missing the two-match Test series against West Indies. Having returned to playing County for Sussex, Pujara, in a recent conversation with The Final Word Podcast, said he has been through ups and downs in his career, but at this stage, where he played over 100 Tests and scored over 7000 runs, getting dropped from the Test pinches more. The right heir to Rahul Dravid for India at the number three position, Pujara added the challenge will always remain but is optimistic about making a comeback into the Test side, as he believes he still belongs there. ALSO READ: You need flexibility, every player must bat anywhere in batting order: Rohit on Indian squad for Asia Cup "There have been ups and downs in the last few years, and it tests you as a player because having played say more than 90 Test matches when I got dropped, I still had to prove myself, I still had to prove that I belonged there. It’s a different type of challenge," Pujara told The Final Word podcast on the sidelines of his county stint with Sussex. "Sometimes you do get frustrated, even if you have to prove yourself after 90 Tests and five-six thousand, whatever number of runs I had scored, it’s not easy. Pujara said having attained success at the international level, after proving yourself in every country, getting sidelined plays a little with the ego. "Sometimes it plays around with your ego. Having been successful at the international level for so many years, there are still doubts - are you good enough? And if you have to prove yourself again and again, [you wonder] whether it is worth it," Pujara added. 'I still have a lot to contribute' With India set to tour South Africa later this year and England touring India for five Test early next year, Rohit Sharma-led side will need a solid number three to make things work on both occasions, and who better than Pujara? The Test star said he believes his comeback is near, as his contributions to the team are there to see for everyone. "I keep telling myself that I know I belong there," Pujara said. "I know that the kind of contributions I have made to Indian cricket, I still have a lot to contribute. I was given an interesting stat some time ago where I was told that whenever I have scored more than 70 or 80 runs for the Indian team, it is about 80% of the times India have gone on to win... or we haven't lost that particular Test match. So I know if I score runs for the Indian team, most times we are on the winning side,” he added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Getting dropped after playing 90 Tests does play with your ego, ‘frustrated’ Pujara admits

India continued their dominance in the opening Test versus West Indies, in Dominica, during Day Two on Thursday (July 13). Resuming the day at 80 for no loss, after the Windies were bundled out for 150, Indian openers Rohit Sharma (103) and Yashasvi Jaiswal (143 not out) put India on top with their 229-run stand before they went to stumps at 312 for 2, leading by 162 runs. Besides Jaiswal -- who became the 17th Indian to score a century on Test debut -- Shubman Gill also made heads turn. He had his first stint at the No. 3 spot, but fell cheaply.

Prior to the Test series opener, captain Rohit revealed that Gill had asked the team management to use him at No. 3, instead of playing as an opener. However, the right-hander failed to get going and departed for six. After the day's play, former Indian opener Aakash Chopra opined on Gill and feels he will have to tweak his batting technique at his new batting slot.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wi-vs-ind-virat-kohli-surpasses-virender-sehwag-to-become-indias-fifth-highest-run-scorer-in-tests-615450">WI vs IND: Virat Kohli surpasses Virender Sehwag to become India's fifth-highest run-scorer in Tests</a>

Speaking on his YouTube channel after Day 2, Chopra said, "Shubman Gill came at No. 3. It is difficult and he will realise that. He has played the majority of his innings in first-class cricket as an opener. He came at No. 3 here after a huge partnership. He plays with slightly hard hands. So his method of defending with hard hands, he will have to change it slightly as he plays more in Test matches."

Meanwhile, Chopra also opined on Virat Kohli's unbeaten knock. Kohli came out to bat after Rohit's dismissal and stitched an unbroken 72-run third-wicket stand with centurion Jaiswal before second day's play ended. The former Indian captain is batting on 36 and will be eager to break his five-year-long overseas century drought in the purest format of the game.&nbsp;

Talking about Gill, he will be gutted to miss out on scoring big in the first innings. However, he will look to make amends in his next outing.&nbsp;

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India continued their dominance in the opening Test versus West Indies, in Dominica, during Day Two on Thursday (July 13). Resuming the day at 80 for no loss, after the Windies were bundled out for 150, Indian openers Rohit Sharma (103) and Yashasvi Jaiswal (143 not out) put India on top with their 229-run stand before they went to stumps at 312 for 2, leading by 162 runs.

India continued their dominance in the opening Test versus West Indies, in Dominica, during Day Two on Thursday (July 13). Resuming the day at 80 for no loss, after the Windies were bundled out for 150, Indian openers Rohit Sharma (103) and Yashasvi Jaiswal (143 not out) put India on top with their 229-run stand before they went to stumps at 312 for 2, leading by 162 runs. Besides Jaiswal -- who became the 17th Indian to score a century on Test debut -- Shubman Gill also made heads turn. He had his first stint at the No. 3 spot, but fell cheaply. Prior to the Test series opener, captain Rohit revealed that Gill had asked the team management to use him at No. 3, instead of playing as an opener. However, the right-hander failed to get going and departed for six. After the day's play, former Indian opener Aakash Chopra opined on Gill and feels he will have to tweak his batting technique at his new batting slot. Also Read: WI vs IND: Virat Kohli surpasses Virender Sehwag to become India's fifth-highest run-scorer in Tests Speaking on his YouTube channel after Day 2, Chopra said, "Shubman Gill came at No. 3. It is difficult and he will realise that. He has played the majority of his innings in first-class cricket as an opener. He came at No. 3 here after a huge partnership. He plays with slightly hard hands. So his method of defending with hard hands, he will have to change it slightly as he plays more in Test matches." Meanwhile, Chopra also opined on Virat Kohli's unbeaten knock. Kohli came out to bat after Rohit's dismissal and stitched an unbroken 72-run third-wicket stand with centurion Jaiswal before second day's play ended. The former Indian captain is batting on 36 and will be eager to break his five-year-long overseas century drought in the purest format of the game. Talking about Gill, he will be gutted to miss out on scoring big in the first innings. However, he will look to make amends in his next outing. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

WI vs IND: 'He will have to...' - Former Indian opener opines on India's new No. 3 Shubman Gill's technique

India are set to kick off their campaign in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 cycle with the two-match Test series versus West Indies. The home side will host Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. in the first Test, at Windsor Park, Roseau, Dominica, on July 12 as India look set to start a new era in red-ball format with the additions of many youngsters in the line-up. When the Test squad for the WI series was announced, Cheteshwar Pujara's name was missing as many believe he has been made the scapegoat for India's WTC final loss versus Australia, at The Oval, London, last month.

Pujara averaged 32 in the 2021-23 WTC cycle and has only scored one ton since early 2019. The right-hander's numbers have been dismal, to say the least, but the likes of Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane have also not performed as per expectations for quite some time. Thus, former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh opined on Pujara's omission and feels he has been India's 'unsung hero' for a long time and deserves more respect.

<h2>Pujara has been doing the dirty work of hanging in there'</h2>

"I have a lot of respect for Chesteshwar Pujara for what he has achieved. He has been an unsung hero of the Indian team for many years now. He has been one of those pillars of strength for India, doing the dirty work of hanging in there, making sure other batters got their comfort," Harbhajan told news agency&nbsp;PTI.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-can-be-an-option-for-test-captaincy-if-india-look-beyond-rohit-sharma-former-chief-selector-613947">Virat Kohli can be an option for Test captaincy if India look beyond Rohit Sharma: Former chief selector</a>

Bhajji asserted, "I believe he needs to be given a bit more respect than what he has been given and the way he was chucked out of the team was a surprise for me. Because he isn't the only one not scoring runs. There are others as well who play in that same team who are scoring runs at same average."

Harbhajan also pointed out that a lot of talk has been around Pujara's strike-rate in Tests, but he feels he has also held up one end firmly with his defensive approach. "In case of Pujara, we keep hearing about his strike-rate of scoring runs in Tests but because of that strike-rate, the wickets remain intact and that's a huge contribution. So you have to see which guy is contributing what. You need to see how much the team needs him. In my opinion, the team still needs him. When you go abroad (SENA countries), you need one such batter as you can't have everyone playing strokes all the time. You need someone who plays normal Test cricket, just like Chesteshwar Pujara," he added.

Pujara recently scored a ton in the 2023 Duleep Trophy semi-final for West Zone. He has been replaced by the likes of Yashasvi Jaiswal and Ruturaj Gaikwad for the WI series, however, if he scores a bulk of runs in the domestic circuit, he might still make a comeback in the Indian team.

In 103 Tests, Pujara has&nbsp;7195 runs along with 19 tons and 35 half-centuries at an average of&nbsp;43.60, including a best of 206.

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India are set to kick off their campaign in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 cycle with the two-match Test series versus West Indies. The home side will host Rohit Sharma & Co.

India are set to kick off their campaign in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 cycle with the two-match Test series versus West Indies. The home side will host Rohit Sharma & Co. in the first Test, at Windsor Park, Roseau, Dominica, on July 12 as India look set to start a new era in red-ball format with the additions of many youngsters in the line-up. When the Test squad for the WI series was announced, Cheteshwar Pujara's name was missing as many believe he has been made the scapegoat for India's WTC final loss versus Australia, at The Oval, London, last month. Pujara averaged 32 in the 2021-23 WTC cycle and has only scored one ton since early 2019. The right-hander's numbers have been dismal, to say the least, but the likes of Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane have also not performed as per expectations for quite some time. Thus, former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh opined on Pujara's omission and feels he has been India's 'unsung hero' for a long time and deserves more respect. Pujara has been doing the dirty work of hanging in there' "I have a lot of respect for Chesteshwar Pujara for what he has achieved. He has been an unsung hero of the Indian team for many years now. He has been one of those pillars of strength for India, doing the dirty work of hanging in there, making sure other batters got their comfort," Harbhajan told news agency PTI. Also Read: Virat Kohli can be an option for Test captaincy if India look beyond Rohit Sharma: Former chief selector Bhajji asserted, "I believe he needs to be given a bit more respect than what he has been given and the way he was chucked out of the team was a surprise for me. Because he isn't the only one not scoring runs. There are others as well who play in that same team who are scoring runs at same average." Harbhajan also pointed out that a lot of talk has been around Pujara's strike-rate in Tests, but he feels he has also held up one end firmly with his defensive approach. "In case of Pujara, we keep hearing about his strike-rate of scoring runs in Tests but because of that strike-rate, the wickets remain intact and that's a huge contribution. So you have to see which guy is contributing what. You need to see how much the team needs him. In my opinion, the team still needs him. When you go abroad (SENA countries), you need one such batter as you can't have everyone playing strokes all the time. You need someone who plays normal Test cricket, just like Chesteshwar Pujara," he added. Pujara recently scored a ton in the 2023 Duleep Trophy semi-final for West Zone. He has been replaced by the likes of Yashasvi Jaiswal and Ruturaj Gaikwad for the WI series, however, if he scores a bulk of runs in the domestic circuit, he might still make a comeback in the Indian team. In 103 Tests, Pujara has 7195 runs along with 19 tons and 35 half-centuries at an average of 43.60, including a best of 206. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'He has been Team India's unsung hero': Harbhajan praises senior batter ahead of West Indies Tests

Former India cricketer and coach Lalchand Rajput has backed BCCI’s call to drop seasoned campaigner Cheteshwar Pujara from Test squad for the West Indies series starting July 12.

Former India cricketer and coach Lalchand Rajput has backed BCCI’s call to drop seasoned campaigner Cheteshwar Pujara from Test squad for the West Indies series starting July 12. Following the squads announcement, social media went into a frenzy regarding a few decisions, including the call to overlook India’s number three batter. Instead, the board picked new faces like Yashasvi Jaiswal and Ruturaj Gaikwad as backups, something Rajput feels is a positive sign. This decision came on the back of a lacklustre show from Pujara during the World Test Championship (WTC) Final against Australia - the marquee clash that India lost by 209 runs. Though Pujara had spent most of the summer playing in English County for Sussex, the batter with 100-plus Tests experience couldn’t deliver on the big stage. In a chat with ANI, Lalchand Rajput said this is a positive sign as youngsters need to get drafted in slowly. He added it takes time for youngsters to grow into superstars in today’s fast-paced cricket, and that's why bringing in younger legs is the right move. ALSO READ: CWC 2023: Pakistan to send security delegation to India to inspect venues prior to granting approval "It is a positive move. We have to prepare for the next WTC cycle. You have to bring in youngsters slowly. You have to groom them, ease them into the rigours of international cricket. Hopefully, more young players will be given chances to represent the country. Ruturaj and Jaiswal have made a lot of runs. It (Giving them Test caps) will boost your bench strength," said Rajput in an interview with ANI. Lalchand also expressed his views on the domestic giant Sarfaraz Khan, who, despite scoring mountain of runs from past three Ranji seasons, averaging nearly 80, didn’t get a nod for the West Indies series. While earlier, a BCCI source close to the information said reason for not selecting Sarfaraz has less to do with his performance and more with his off-field issues, Lalchand preferred to remain mum on this. "If he has been making runs but still not getting chances after three years, there must be some reason. I do not know what the reason is, but he should have been given a chance,” Lalchand added. Bumrah’s presence will boost India’s chances in WC Speaking on India’s chances of winning the home World Cup later this year, he said if Bumrah can attain fitness and remain available for all matches, the probability of India winning will increase. And given the home advantage, they will be hot favourites for the trophy. "India has the advantage of playing at home. We hope India wins. Our bowling will be better if Bumrah recovers. We will miss him sorely if he is ruled out through injury. He gives you overs early in the game, in the middle and at death and can get you wickets in any phase of the match," he added. Meanwhile, the World Cup 2023 begins on October 5 and will end on November 19. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

WI vs IND 2023: Ex-coach backs BCCI's call to drop Cheteshwar Pujara from Test squad, calls it 'positive move'

On June 23, the BCCI selectors named a 16-man squad for Team India's upcoming two-match Test series versus West Indies, in the Caribbean island, which commences on July 12. After Rohit Sharma-led India's humiliating loss in the WTC final to Australia, some tough decisions were expected to be taken as the axe was certainly going to fall on some senior players.

Thus, Cheteshwar Pujara was dropped as the selectors chose to&nbsp;include&nbsp;plenty of youngsters, such as Ruturaj Gaikwad, Yashasvi Jaiswal, etc. Recently, former Indian player WV Raman opened up on Pujara's omission and feels he wasn't treated properly by the BCCI selection committee.&nbsp;

Talking to former Indian opener Aakash Chopra on his Youtube channel, Raman said, "The problem is that they have picked four possible openers, and they have dropped Pujara, which is another bone of contention. A cricketer like Pujara has done a lot for Indian cricket, and he has been instrumental for India winning both at home and abroad on quite a few occasions."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/was-india-underprepared-for-wtc-final-after-ipl-2023-sourav-ganguly-disagrees-with-the-theory-610581">Was India underprepared for WTC final after IPL 2023? Sourav Ganguly disagrees with the 'theory'</a>

Raman -- the former Indian women's team coach -- further opined, "He is a gritty customer. He was even elevated to vice-captaincy quite recently but a failure in the WTC final, he finds that he is left out in the cold. I think this is one decision that has not gone down well with many people, and I, personally, as well, I am not for it."

"He deserves to be treated properly. In the event, if they think it's the end of Pujara, he could have been given a better exit, but that's how things happen sometimes, and this is not the first case again. There are a lot of precedences as far as this kind of treatment is concerned," Raman added.

Pujara, a veteran of 103 Tests, has 7,195&nbsp;runs in the red-ball format. The right-hander has not been at his best in the recently-concluded 2021-23 WTC cycle and his poor returns in the WTC final, where he managed 14 and 27, led to his ouster, with youngsters such as Ruturaj, Ishan Kishan, Jaiswal breathing down his neck.&nbsp;It will be interesting to see if Pujara manages to make a comeback to India's Test line-up.

India's squad for WI Tests:

Rohit Sharma (Capt), Shubman Gill, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Virat Kohli, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Ajinkya Rahane (VC), KS Bharat (wk), Ishan Kishan (wk), R Ashwin,&nbsp;R Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Axar Patel, Mohd. Siraj, Mukesh Kumar, Jaydev Unadkat, Navdeep Saini.

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On June 23, the BCCI selectors named a 16-man squad for Team India's upcoming two-match Test series versus West Indies, in the Caribbean island, which commences on July 12.

On June 23, the BCCI selectors named a 16-man squad for Team India's upcoming two-match Test series versus West Indies, in the Caribbean island, which commences on July 12. After Rohit Sharma-led India's humiliating loss in the WTC final to Australia, some tough decisions were expected to be taken as the axe was certainly going to fall on some senior players. Thus, Cheteshwar Pujara was dropped as the selectors chose to include plenty of youngsters, such as Ruturaj Gaikwad, Yashasvi Jaiswal, etc. Recently, former Indian player WV Raman opened up on Pujara's omission and feels he wasn't treated properly by the BCCI selection committee. Talking to former Indian opener Aakash Chopra on his Youtube channel, Raman said, "The problem is that they have picked four possible openers, and they have dropped Pujara, which is another bone of contention. A cricketer like Pujara has done a lot for Indian cricket, and he has been instrumental for India winning both at home and abroad on quite a few occasions." Also Read: Was India underprepared for WTC final after IPL 2023? Sourav Ganguly disagrees with the 'theory' Raman -- the former Indian women's team coach -- further opined, "He is a gritty customer. He was even elevated to vice-captaincy quite recently but a failure in the WTC final, he finds that he is left out in the cold. I think this is one decision that has not gone down well with many people, and I, personally, as well, I am not for it." "He deserves to be treated properly. In the event, if they think it's the end of Pujara, he could have been given a better exit, but that's how things happen sometimes, and this is not the first case again. There are a lot of precedences as far as this kind of treatment is concerned," Raman added. Pujara, a veteran of 103 Tests, has 7,195 runs in the red-ball format. The right-hander has not been at his best in the recently-concluded 2021-23 WTC cycle and his poor returns in the WTC final, where he managed 14 and 27, led to his ouster, with youngsters such as Ruturaj, Ishan Kishan, Jaiswal breathing down his neck. It will be interesting to see if Pujara manages to make a comeback to India's Test line-up. India's squad for WI Tests: Rohit Sharma (Capt), Shubman Gill, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Virat Kohli, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Ajinkya Rahane (VC), KS Bharat (wk), Ishan Kishan (wk), R Ashwin, R Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Axar Patel, Mohd. Siraj, Mukesh Kumar, Jaydev Unadkat, Navdeep Saini. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

'If BCCI selectors think it's the end of him...': Former India player on Pujara's omission from WI Tests

India's squad for the upcoming tour of the West Indies has created a lot of stir. While the fans and experts aren't happy with the snubbing of youngster Sarfaraz Khan, dropping Cheteshwar Pujara also hasn't gone down well with them.

Ajinkya Rahane, meanwhile, has been made the vice-captain of the Test team again, at least for the upcoming tour. Notably, Rahane wasn't in the scheme of things for about a year and a half but made a comeback for the WTC Final 2023.

Speaking on the issue of dropping Pujara, a Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) source, however, has said that the senior batter can still make a comeback.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-wi-test-series-twin-failures-at-oval-sealed-his-fate-bcci-officials-shocking-claim-on-pujara-608206">'Twin failures at Oval sealed his fate' - BCCI official's shocking claim on Pujara</a>

"If Ajinkya Rahane can be made vice-captain of the Test team after being out for 15 months before the WTC final, anyone can make a comeback. The doors aren't closed on any senior player. It's just that you need to start transitioning somewhere. The selectors don't want a situation where all seniors quit the scene in one go and we don't have anyone experienced left in the dressing room," a BCCI source said while speaking to media outlet Times of India.

Pujara has played 103 matches for India in whites and has scored 7,195 runs. He has scored those runs at an average of 43.60, with 19 hundreds and 35 fifties. Sunil Gavaskar, one of the former cricketers with whom the decision to drop Pujara didn't go well, said that Pujara has been the victim of other batters’ failures.

"Why has he been dropped? Why has he been made the scapegoat for our batting failures? He has been a loyal servant of Indian cricket. A loyal and quiet servant. A loyal and quiet achiever. But because he does not have millions of followers on platforms who will make a noise in case he gets dropped, you drop him. That is something beyond understanding. What is the criteria of dropping him and keeping the others who failed? I do not know because nowadays, there is no media interaction with the selection committee chairman," Gavaskar said.

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India's squad for the upcoming tour of the West Indies has created a lot of stir. While the fans and experts aren't happy with the snubbing of youngster Sarfaraz Khan, dropping Cheteshwar Pujara also hasn't gone down well with them.

India's squad for the upcoming tour of the West Indies has created a lot of stir. While the fans and experts aren't happy with the snubbing of youngster Sarfaraz Khan, dropping Cheteshwar Pujara also hasn't gone down well with them. Ajinkya Rahane, meanwhile, has been made the vice-captain of the Test team again, at least for the upcoming tour. Notably, Rahane wasn't in the scheme of things for about a year and a half but made a comeback for the WTC Final 2023. Speaking on the issue of dropping Pujara, a Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) source, however, has said that the senior batter can still make a comeback. Also Read: 'Twin failures at Oval sealed his fate' - BCCI official's shocking claim on Pujara "If Ajinkya Rahane can be made vice-captain of the Test team after being out for 15 months before the WTC final, anyone can make a comeback. The doors aren't closed on any senior player. It's just that you need to start transitioning somewhere. The selectors don't want a situation where all seniors quit the scene in one go and we don't have anyone experienced left in the dressing room," a BCCI source said while speaking to media outlet Times of India. Pujara has played 103 matches for India in whites and has scored 7,195 runs. He has scored those runs at an average of 43.60, with 19 hundreds and 35 fifties. Sunil Gavaskar, one of the former cricketers with whom the decision to drop Pujara didn't go well, said that Pujara has been the victim of other batters’ failures. "Why has he been dropped? Why has he been made the scapegoat for our batting failures? He has been a loyal servant of Indian cricket. A loyal and quiet servant. A loyal and quiet achiever. But because he does not have millions of followers on platforms who will make a noise in case he gets dropped, you drop him. That is something beyond understanding. What is the criteria of dropping him and keeping the others who failed? I do not know because nowadays, there is no media interaction with the selection committee chairman," Gavaskar said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

'Anyone can make a comeback,' BCCI source on Cheteshwar Pujara after WI tour snubbing

Former India captain and commentator Sunil Gavaskar is furious over the decision of the selector's panel of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) after they announced the squad for the West Indies tour on Friday, June 23. Much to the surprise of everyone, veteran star Cheteshwar Pujara won’t be boarding the flight to the Caribbean islands next month as the selectors made a bold choice by picking uncapped youngsters like Ruturaj Gaikwad and Yashasvi Jaiswal. According to Gavaskar, Pujara has been the victim of other batters’ failures and should have been given an opportunity for the tour.

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NEWS - India’s squads for West Indies Tests and ODI series announced. 
 
TEST Squad: Rohit Sharma (Capt), Shubman Gill, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Virat Kohli, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Ajinkya Rahane (VC), KS Bharat (wk), Ishan Kishan (wk), R Ashwin, R Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Axar Patel, Mohd.… <a href="https://t.co/w6IzLEhy63">pic.twitter.com/w6IzLEhy63</a>
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<h2>Gavaskar fumes at selectors</h2>

"Why has he been dropped? Why has he been made the scapegoat for our batting failures. He has been a loyal servant of Indian cricket. A loyal and quiet servant. A loyal and quiet achiever. But because he does not have millions of followers on platforms who will make a noise in case he gets dropped, you drop him. That is something beyond understanding. What is the criteria of dropping him and keeping the others who failed? I do not know because nowadays, there is no media interaction with the selection committee chairman," Gavaskar said in an interview.

Pujara, 35, was dropped in favour of young and upcoming talents like Ruturaj and Jaiswal, but Gavaskar was critical of the selectors. While the attention was on the future, the selectors did not even pick&nbsp;up Sarfaraz Khan, who has been in red-hot form in the domestic circuit. He has been made to wait further for his international debut.

The Saurashtra batter on the other hand had a poor World Test Championship (WTC) final at the Oval earlier this month. Despite spending the majority of the time in English conditions, the veteran batter only contributed an aggregate of 41 runs. While he was no way near his best in the WTC final, Gavaskar thinks he was not the batter who had failed miserably.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2023-zak-crawley-makes-bold-prediction-for-lords-test-predicts-england-to-win-by-this-big-margin-607884">Ashes 2023: Zak Crawley makes BOLD prediction for Lord's Test, predicts England will win by THIS margin</a>

<h2>Pujara not the only failure</h2>

"He has been playing country cricket. So, he has played a lot of red-call cricket and he knows what it is about. Today, people can play till they are 39-40 years old and as long as you are producing runs, I do not think age should be a factor. Apart from (Ajinkya) Rahane, the batting completely failed. Why Pujara has been made the fall guy is something the selectors will have to explain," he added.

The Indian team will begin its quest for glory in the Caribbean Islands on July 12 as they will look to start the next WTC campaign on a high. Rohit Sharma, despite in a poor run of form, will lead the team while Ajinkya Rahane has been named as the deputy to his fellow Mumbaikar.

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Former India captain and commentator Sunil Gavaskar is furious over the decision of the selector's panel of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) after they announced the squad for the West Indies tour on Friday, June 23.

Former India captain and commentator Sunil Gavaskar is furious over the decision of the selector's panel of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) after they announced the squad for the West Indies tour on Friday, June 23. Much to the surprise of everyone, veteran star Cheteshwar Pujara won’t be boarding the flight to the Caribbean islands next month as the selectors made a bold choice by picking uncapped youngsters like Ruturaj Gaikwad and Yashasvi Jaiswal. According to Gavaskar, Pujara has been the victim of other batters’ failures and should have been given an opportunity for the tour. NEWS - India’s squads for West Indies Tests and ODI series announced. TEST Squad: Rohit Sharma (Capt), Shubman Gill, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Virat Kohli, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Ajinkya Rahane (VC), KS Bharat (wk), Ishan Kishan (wk), R Ashwin, R Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Axar Patel, Mohd.… pic.twitter.com/w6IzLEhy63 — BCCI (@BCCI) June 23, 2023 × Gavaskar fumes at selectors "Why has he been dropped? Why has he been made the scapegoat for our batting failures. He has been a loyal servant of Indian cricket. A loyal and quiet servant. A loyal and quiet achiever. But because he does not have millions of followers on platforms who will make a noise in case he gets dropped, you drop him. That is something beyond understanding. What is the criteria of dropping him and keeping the others who failed? I do not know because nowadays, there is no media interaction with the selection committee chairman," Gavaskar said in an interview. Pujara, 35, was dropped in favour of young and upcoming talents like Ruturaj and Jaiswal, but Gavaskar was critical of the selectors. While the attention was on the future, the selectors did not even pick up Sarfaraz Khan, who has been in red-hot form in the domestic circuit. He has been made to wait further for his international debut. The Saurashtra batter on the other hand had a poor World Test Championship (WTC) final at the Oval earlier this month. Despite spending the majority of the time in English conditions, the veteran batter only contributed an aggregate of 41 runs. While he was no way near his best in the WTC final, Gavaskar thinks he was not the batter who had failed miserably. ALSO READ | Ashes 2023: Zak Crawley makes BOLD prediction for Lord's Test, predicts England will win by THIS margin Pujara not the only failure "He has been playing country cricket. So, he has played a lot of red-call cricket and he knows what it is about. Today, people can play till they are 39-40 years old and as long as you are producing runs, I do not think age should be a factor. Apart from (Ajinkya) Rahane, the batting completely failed. Why Pujara has been made the fall guy is something the selectors will have to explain," he added. The Indian team will begin its quest for glory in the Caribbean Islands on July 12 as they will look to start the next WTC campaign on a high. Rohit Sharma, despite in a poor run of form, will lead the team while Ajinkya Rahane has been named as the deputy to his fellow Mumbaikar. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

IND vs WI Series: Sunil Gavaskar FURIOUS at selectors for dropping Pujara, says 'he has been made scapegoat'

Cheteshwar Pujara has once again hit the headlines just weeks after his off-show in the World Test Championship (WTC) final in Oval. The veteran Indian star was dropped from the Indian team contingent for the West Indies tour where Rohit Sharma’s men are scheduled to play two Test matches. Interestingly, in a shocking reveal made by a Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) source, Pujara’s fate was sealed with the Indian team was therefore dropped from the touring party to the Caribbean islands.

<h2>Big reveal by BCCI source</h2>

"Once he failed in Australia series at home, there was very little chance for him but selectors didn't want to change things ahead of WTC final," a BCCI source in know of things told PTI on conditions of anonymity.&nbsp;

The Saurashtra&nbsp;batter scored an aggregate 41 runs in the WTC final but much to the surprise was axed from the team while another veteran star Ajinkya Rahane was promoted to the deputy spot for Rohit Sharma. Rahane missed out on a hundred in the first innings of the WTC final as he got out for 89 while he scored 46 in the second innings. As a result of that performance, Rahane retained his place in the Indian team while Pujara was dropped.

"Twin failures at Oval sealed his fate. SS Das was in London for WTC final. He must have had a word with head coach Rahul Dravid and intimated his panel's thought-process post final," the source added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-wi-series-sunil-gavaskar-furious-at-selectors-for-dropping-pujara-says-he-has-been-made-scapegoat-608103">IND vs WI Series: Sunil Gavaskar FURIOUS at selectors for dropping Pujara, says 'he has been made scapegoat'</a>

<h2>Pujara dropped in favour of youngsters</h2>

Pujara, 35, was dropped in favour of young and upcoming talents like Ruturaj Gaikwad and Yashasvi Jaiswal. While the attention was on the future, the selectors still made a bold decision by not picking up Sarfaraz Khan, who has been in red-hot form in the domestic circuit. He has been made to wait for his international debut.

The Indian team will begin its quest for glory at the Caribbean Islands on July 12 as they will look to start the next WTC campaign on a high. Rohit Sharma, despite in a poor run of form as the skipper of the side, will lead the team while Ajinkya Rahane surprisingly has been named as the deputy to his fellow Mumbaikar.

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Cheteshwar Pujara has once again hit the headlines just weeks after his off-show in the World Test Championship (WTC) final in Oval. The veteran Indian star was dropped from the Indian team contingent for the West Indies tour where Rohit Sharma’s men are scheduled to play two Test matches.

Cheteshwar Pujara has once again hit the headlines just weeks after his off-show in the World Test Championship (WTC) final in Oval. The veteran Indian star was dropped from the Indian team contingent for the West Indies tour where Rohit Sharma’s men are scheduled to play two Test matches. Interestingly, in a shocking reveal made by a Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) source, Pujara’s fate was sealed with the Indian team was therefore dropped from the touring party to the Caribbean islands. Big reveal by BCCI source "Once he failed in Australia series at home, there was very little chance for him but selectors didn't want to change things ahead of WTC final," a BCCI source in know of things told PTI on conditions of anonymity. The Saurashtra batter scored an aggregate 41 runs in the WTC final but much to the surprise was axed from the team while another veteran star Ajinkya Rahane was promoted to the deputy spot for Rohit Sharma. Rahane missed out on a hundred in the first innings of the WTC final as he got out for 89 while he scored 46 in the second innings. As a result of that performance, Rahane retained his place in the Indian team while Pujara was dropped. "Twin failures at Oval sealed his fate. SS Das was in London for WTC final. He must have had a word with head coach Rahul Dravid and intimated his panel's thought-process post final," the source added. ALSO READ | IND vs WI Series: Sunil Gavaskar FURIOUS at selectors for dropping Pujara, says 'he has been made scapegoat' Pujara dropped in favour of youngsters Pujara, 35, was dropped in favour of young and upcoming talents like Ruturaj Gaikwad and Yashasvi Jaiswal. While the attention was on the future, the selectors still made a bold decision by not picking up Sarfaraz Khan, who has been in red-hot form in the domestic circuit. He has been made to wait for his international debut. The Indian team will begin its quest for glory at the Caribbean Islands on July 12 as they will look to start the next WTC campaign on a high. Rohit Sharma, despite in a poor run of form as the skipper of the side, will lead the team while Ajinkya Rahane surprisingly has been named as the deputy to his fellow Mumbaikar. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

IND vs WI Test Series: 'Twin failures at Oval sealed his fate' - BCCI official's shocking claim on Pujara

Truly, Cheteshwar Pujara remains the last of the Test specialists in the modern era where batters do not hesitate to go bang-bang from the word go. In an&nbsp;era with unparallel demand&nbsp;for&nbsp;quick scoring, be it any format, Pujara remains one from the old school of cricket,&nbsp;making his presence more significant in the longer version of the game.&nbsp;

Nonetheless, whenever questions have been raised on India's famed batters' struggle for form, Pujara has been an easy target for critics. Call it his defensive approach, fitness issues, strike-rate woes (yes, even that is taken into account in red-ball cricket in modern times) or his stature being less than big-ticket players such as Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, the Saurashtra-born batter has more often than not paid the price.

However, Pujara also enjoyed a lengthy rope in India's Test squad despite dwindling returns since his standout performances in the 2018/19 series against hosts Australia. Since India's first-ever Test series win in Australia, where Pujara ended with 521 runs, including three hundreds, the right-hander has struggled for consistency. He has added only one more three-figure knock under his belt, which came last December in Bangladesh (102 not out).

Pujara has only struck 15 fifties, in 62 innings,&nbsp;since the 2018-19 Australia tour. Thus, a long run of below-par performances have hogged his esteemed Test career. India have been unlucky to witness the fall of Rahane, Kohli, and Pujara at the same time. But, the axe has only fallen on Rahane and Pujara. Interestingly,&nbsp;the latter was offered a central contract for October-September 2022-23, while Rahane wasn't. But Rahane will board India's flight for the West Indies, where they play two Tests starting on July 12, whereas Pujara has been dropped after the squad was announced on Friday (June 23).

In the 16-member squad, the BCCI selectors backed a plethora of youngsters, such as Yashasvi Jaiswal, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Mukesh Kumar, and Ishan Kishan.&nbsp;Thus, the transition period has certainly kicked off in India's Test line-up after the WTC final post-mortem (where India lost the Test mace to Australia by 209 runs earlier&nbsp;this month in London).&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-retains-captaincy-as-bcci-names-india-test-squad-for-wi-tour-pujara-dropped-jaiswal-ruturaj-included-607800">Rohit retains captaincy as BCCI names India Test squad for WI tour, Pujara dropped; Jaiswal, Ruturaj included</a>

Unsurprisingly, Pujara has been the first victim among batters as his twin failures in the WTC summit clash (with scores of 14 and 27) intensified his omission&nbsp;talks. We are in an era in world cricket where England's Bazball is headlining the format. Ben Stokes-Brendon McCullum-led England have adopted a fearless approach, batting&nbsp;at over 4.5 runs per over (RPO), and coming up with funky field sets. With India losing the WTC final twice in a row, tough decisions were set to be made. In this aspect, Pujara's slow-burn approach has been overlooked.

Pujara's approach has resulted in many hard-fought and dominating wins for Team India in whites since his debut in 2010. He has stood rock solid and bailed India out of the crisis by taking body blows, concentrating hard on each ball, and trusting his defence. However, his methods have been proven outdated with the rise of young blokes (Jaiswal, Gaikwad, Sarfaraz Khan, etc.). Pujara has never been the quickest between wickets. Age is also not on his side&nbsp;(he is 35). On the other hand,&nbsp;Rahane's 89 and 46 and Kohli's 49 (not that his place will&nbsp;ever come under the scanner) in the WTC final coincided with&nbsp;his flop show,&nbsp;leading to his exit.

It is to be noted that&nbsp;Pujara's numbers versus spin aren't encouraging. He has never been comfortable against the moving deliveries but&nbsp;has also been dismissed by spinners on 19 occasions since 2019 (scoring 910 at a decent 47.89). He averaged over 70 (71.51) versus the spin bowlers from 2010-2018. One might say it is a lost battle now. However, never say never. Rahane wasn't even in India's WTC final scheme of things till Shreyas Iyer got injured. Now, he has regained the vice-captaincy tag for the West Indies series.

Overall, Pujara's road ahead looks extremely tough. As per reports in the Times of India, he is set to feature in this year's Duleep Trophy. His appetite for runs, hunger for batting, and love for Test cricket is second to none. Thus, Pujara's days are not over yet. He is a fighter by all means. The right-hander won't back down so easily. Nonetheless, his current omission looks like a start towards the future.&nbsp;Given his below-par returns since 2019, playing style, and fitness, it does seem&nbsp;to be the right call.

Thus,&nbsp;the phasing out of seniors has begun with Pujara's ouster. India will kick off their all-format tour of the West Indies on July 12. They play two Tests, on July 12 and July 20.&nbsp;

TEST Squad:&nbsp;Rohit Sharma (Capt), Shubman Gill, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Virat Kohli, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Ajinkya Rahane (VC), KS Bharat (wk), Ishan Kishan (wk), R Ashwin,&nbsp;R Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Axar Patel, Mohd. Siraj, Mukesh Kumar, Jaydev Unadkat, Navdeep Saini.

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Truly, Cheteshwar Pujara remains the last of the Test specialists in the modern era where batters do not hesitate to go bang-bang from the word go. In an era with unparallel demand for quick scoring, be it any format, Pujara remains one from the old school of cricket, making his presence more significant in the longer version of the game.

Truly, Cheteshwar Pujara remains the last of the Test specialists in the modern era where batters do not hesitate to go bang-bang from the word go. In an era with unparallel demand for quick scoring, be it any format, Pujara remains one from the old school of cricket, making his presence more significant in the longer version of the game. Nonetheless, whenever questions have been raised on India's famed batters' struggle for form, Pujara has been an easy target for critics. Call it his defensive approach, fitness issues, strike-rate woes (yes, even that is taken into account in red-ball cricket in modern times) or his stature being less than big-ticket players such as Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, the Saurashtra-born batter has more often than not paid the price. However, Pujara also enjoyed a lengthy rope in India's Test squad despite dwindling returns since his standout performances in the 2018/19 series against hosts Australia. Since India's first-ever Test series win in Australia, where Pujara ended with 521 runs, including three hundreds, the right-hander has struggled for consistency. He has added only one more three-figure knock under his belt, which came last December in Bangladesh (102 not out). Pujara has only struck 15 fifties, in 62 innings, since the 2018-19 Australia tour. Thus, a long run of below-par performances have hogged his esteemed Test career. India have been unlucky to witness the fall of Rahane, Kohli, and Pujara at the same time. But, the axe has only fallen on Rahane and Pujara. Interestingly, the latter was offered a central contract for October-September 2022-23, while Rahane wasn't. But Rahane will board India's flight for the West Indies, where they play two Tests starting on July 12, whereas Pujara has been dropped after the squad was announced on Friday (June 23). In the 16-member squad, the BCCI selectors backed a plethora of youngsters, such as Yashasvi Jaiswal, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Mukesh Kumar, and Ishan Kishan. Thus, the transition period has certainly kicked off in India's Test line-up after the WTC final post-mortem (where India lost the Test mace to Australia by 209 runs earlier this month in London). Also Read: Rohit retains captaincy as BCCI names India Test squad for WI tour, Pujara dropped; Jaiswal, Ruturaj included Unsurprisingly, Pujara has been the first victim among batters as his twin failures in the WTC summit clash (with scores of 14 and 27) intensified his omission talks. We are in an era in world cricket where England's Bazball is headlining the format. Ben Stokes-Brendon McCullum-led England have adopted a fearless approach, batting at over 4.5 runs per over (RPO), and coming up with funky field sets. With India losing the WTC final twice in a row, tough decisions were set to be made. In this aspect, Pujara's slow-burn approach has been overlooked. Pujara's approach has resulted in many hard-fought and dominating wins for Team India in whites since his debut in 2010. He has stood rock solid and bailed India out of the crisis by taking body blows, concentrating hard on each ball, and trusting his defence. However, his methods have been proven outdated with the rise of young blokes (Jaiswal, Gaikwad, Sarfaraz Khan, etc.). Pujara has never been the quickest between wickets. Age is also not on his side (he is 35). On the other hand, Rahane's 89 and 46 and Kohli's 49 (not that his place will ever come under the scanner) in the WTC final coincided with his flop show, leading to his exit. It is to be noted that Pujara's numbers versus spin aren't encouraging. He has never been comfortable against the moving deliveries but has also been dismissed by spinners on 19 occasions since 2019 (scoring 910 at a decent 47.89). He averaged over 70 (71.51) versus the spin bowlers from 2010-2018. One might say it is a lost battle now. However, never say never. Rahane wasn't even in India's WTC final scheme of things till Shreyas Iyer got injured. Now, he has regained the vice-captaincy tag for the West Indies series. Overall, Pujara's road ahead looks extremely tough. As per reports in the Times of India, he is set to feature in this year's Duleep Trophy. His appetite for runs, hunger for batting, and love for Test cricket is second to none. Thus, Pujara's days are not over yet. He is a fighter by all means. The right-hander won't back down so easily. Nonetheless, his current omission looks like a start towards the future. Given his below-par returns since 2019, playing style, and fitness, it does seem to be the right call. Thus, the phasing out of seniors has begun with Pujara's ouster. India will kick off their all-format tour of the West Indies on July 12. They play two Tests, on July 12 and July 20. TEST Squad: Rohit Sharma (Capt), Shubman Gill, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Virat Kohli, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Ajinkya Rahane (VC), KS Bharat (wk), Ishan Kishan (wk), R Ashwin, R Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Axar Patel, Mohd. Siraj, Mukesh Kumar, Jaydev Unadkat, Navdeep Saini. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Explained: India tour of WI | Sympathies with Cheteshwar Pujara but the right call made

On Friday afternoon (June 23), the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced India's 16-man squad for their upcoming two-match Test series versus West Indies in the Caribbean island, starting on July 12. Despite criticism for his captaincy after India's WTC final loss to Australia, Rohit Sharma has retained the top job with Ajinkya Rahane being named his deputy.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, it was expected that the axe would fall on senior players after the WTC final loss. And the same has happened. Cheteshwar Pujara, India's No. 3, has been dropped, along with&nbsp;a plethora of young players such as Yashasvi Jaiswal, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Mukesh Kumar, etc. being included. Mohammed Shami's name is also missing from the squad. The veteran is expected to have been given rest but the same might not be the case for Pujara, who struggled for runs in the WTC finale (with poor returns of 14 and 27).

Navdeep Saini has been roped in as well along with Jaydev Unadkat retaining his place. Umesh Yadav, meanwhile, didn't find a spot. Mohammed Siraj will be expected to spearhead the pace attack.&nbsp;The likes of Shardul Thakur, Axar Patel, R Ashwin, and Ravindra Jadeja are part of the all-rounder's department.

Both KS Bharat and Ishan Kishan are the wicketkeeper-batters in the 16-member squad. The first Test kicks off on July 12 at Windsor Park, Roseau, Dominica, followed by the series decider at the&nbsp;Queen's Park Oval, Port of Spain, Trinidad.

TEST Squad:&nbsp;Rohit Sharma (Capt), Shubman Gill, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Virat Kohli, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Ajinkya Rahane (VC), KS Bharat (wk), Ishan Kishan (wk), R Ashwin,&nbsp;R Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Axar Patel, Mohd. Siraj, Mukesh Kumar, Jaydev Unadkat, Navdeep Saini.

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On Friday afternoon (June 23), the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced India's 16-man squad for their upcoming two-match Test series versus West Indies in the Caribbean island, starting on July 12.

On Friday afternoon (June 23), the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced India's 16-man squad for their upcoming two-match Test series versus West Indies in the Caribbean island, starting on July 12. Despite criticism for his captaincy after India's WTC final loss to Australia, Rohit Sharma has retained the top job with Ajinkya Rahane being named his deputy. Meanwhile, it was expected that the axe would fall on senior players after the WTC final loss. And the same has happened. Cheteshwar Pujara, India's No. 3, has been dropped, along with a plethora of young players such as Yashasvi Jaiswal, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Mukesh Kumar, etc. being included. Mohammed Shami's name is also missing from the squad. The veteran is expected to have been given rest but the same might not be the case for Pujara, who struggled for runs in the WTC finale (with poor returns of 14 and 27). Navdeep Saini has been roped in as well along with Jaydev Unadkat retaining his place. Umesh Yadav, meanwhile, didn't find a spot. Mohammed Siraj will be expected to spearhead the pace attack. The likes of Shardul Thakur, Axar Patel, R Ashwin, and Ravindra Jadeja are part of the all-rounder's department. Both KS Bharat and Ishan Kishan are the wicketkeeper-batters in the 16-member squad. The first Test kicks off on July 12 at Windsor Park, Roseau, Dominica, followed by the series decider at the Queen's Park Oval, Port of Spain, Trinidad. TEST Squad: Rohit Sharma (Capt), Shubman Gill, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Virat Kohli, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Ajinkya Rahane (VC), KS Bharat (wk), Ishan Kishan (wk), R Ashwin, R Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Axar Patel, Mohd. Siraj, Mukesh Kumar, Jaydev Unadkat, Navdeep Saini. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Rohit retains captaincy as BCCI names India Test squad for WI tour, Pujara dropped; Jaiswal, Ruturaj included

India lost the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final to Australia by a whopping 209-run margin at The Oval, London, earlier&nbsp;this month. Having reached the WTC final for the second time in a row, India once again finished second&nbsp;(they lost&nbsp;to New Zealand in the summit clash of the inaugural cycle in 2021). India will now commence their campaign in the third cycle of the WTC with a two-match Test series versus West Indies in the Caribbean island, starting on July 12.

Prior to the Indian Test squad announcement by the BCCI selectors, former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar shared his take on the team composition going forward. Manjrekar feels Indian selectors need to make some big decisions and should include at least three new batters and pacers in the mix, with many senior players looking out of touch, while the likes of Jasprit Bumrah, Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant, KL Rahul, etc. remain injured.

<h2>'About time we start rewarding the guys who are doing well in first-class cricket'</h2>

"The game changers for Australia in the WTC final - Steve Smith and Travis Head - don't play a lot of T20 cricket. So we have to find guys who are not going to be fatigued or don't have to make the adjustments from IPL to Test cricket. About time we start rewarding the guys who are doing well in first-class cricket. And not just runs. The selectors could look at players who have it in them to be future Test players and succeed in foreign conditions. I would like to see at least three new batters come into play in the picture and new fast bowlers," Manjrekar said on ESPNCricinfo.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/is-it-going-to-hold-up-ricky-ponting-questions-englands-style-of-play-after-edgbaston-thriller-606880">'Is it going to hold up': Ricky Ponting questions England's 'style of play' after Edgbaston thriller</a>

The cricketer-turned-commentator further opined, "When it comes to batting, they just have to look at first-class performers and not just the amount of runs the player has scored. if you closely observe our domestic cricket then you will find players for No. 3, 4, 5 who has a decent defensive technique, has an appetite for runs and that's your guy, that's the guy to back."

On the pace department, Manjrekar added, "Just a few months back I was taking pride in the depth that we have in our seam-bowling department and suddenly Bumrah is not fit. There are quite fit others like Prasidh Krishna so maybe for Test cricket, India need to create a new line of fast bowlers. Now you should look for specific test players. If somebody gets injured, we should have backups ready. Like Scott Boland. Came in straightaway and made an impact. We had to go back to Umesh Yadav which is not a good sign."

India's tour of West Indies will comprise two Tests, three ODIs and five T20Is. It will be interesting to see if the likes of Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Umesh Yadav, etc. retain&nbsp;their spots or are replaced by the young guns. Meanwhile, even Virat Kohli's Test numbers have been below par in recent years whereas Rohit and R Ashwin do not have age and fitness on their side.

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India lost the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final to Australia by a whopping 209-run margin at The Oval, London, earlier this month. Having reached the WTC final for the second time in a row, India once again finished second (they lost to New Zealand in the summit clash of the inaugural cycle in 2021).

India lost the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final to Australia by a whopping 209-run margin at The Oval, London, earlier this month. Having reached the WTC final for the second time in a row, India once again finished second (they lost to New Zealand in the summit clash of the inaugural cycle in 2021). India will now commence their campaign in the third cycle of the WTC with a two-match Test series versus West Indies in the Caribbean island, starting on July 12. Prior to the Indian Test squad announcement by the BCCI selectors, former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar shared his take on the team composition going forward. Manjrekar feels Indian selectors need to make some big decisions and should include at least three new batters and pacers in the mix, with many senior players looking out of touch, while the likes of Jasprit Bumrah, Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant, KL Rahul, etc. remain injured. 'About time we start rewarding the guys who are doing well in first-class cricket' "The game changers for Australia in the WTC final - Steve Smith and Travis Head - don't play a lot of T20 cricket. So we have to find guys who are not going to be fatigued or don't have to make the adjustments from IPL to Test cricket. About time we start rewarding the guys who are doing well in first-class cricket. And not just runs. The selectors could look at players who have it in them to be future Test players and succeed in foreign conditions. I would like to see at least three new batters come into play in the picture and new fast bowlers," Manjrekar said on ESPNCricinfo. Also Read: 'Is it going to hold up': Ricky Ponting questions England's 'style of play' after Edgbaston thriller The cricketer-turned-commentator further opined, "When it comes to batting, they just have to look at first-class performers and not just the amount of runs the player has scored. if you closely observe our domestic cricket then you will find players for No. 3, 4, 5 who has a decent defensive technique, has an appetite for runs and that's your guy, that's the guy to back." On the pace department, Manjrekar added, "Just a few months back I was taking pride in the depth that we have in our seam-bowling department and suddenly Bumrah is not fit. There are quite fit others like Prasidh Krishna so maybe for Test cricket, India need to create a new line of fast bowlers. Now you should look for specific test players. If somebody gets injured, we should have backups ready. Like Scott Boland. Came in straightaway and made an impact. We had to go back to Umesh Yadav which is not a good sign." India's tour of West Indies will comprise two Tests, three ODIs and five T20Is. It will be interesting to see if the likes of Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Umesh Yadav, etc. retain their spots or are replaced by the young guns. Meanwhile, even Virat Kohli's Test numbers have been below par in recent years whereas Rohit and R Ashwin do not have age and fitness on their side. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

West Indies tour: Sanjay Manjrekar calls for inclusion of '3 new batters and pacers' in India's Test line-up

Tests specialists Ajinkya Rahane and Cheteshwar Pujara will return to playing in division two of the County Championship after India’s upcoming tour of the West Indies. Following the World Test Championship (WTC) Final against Australia in the UK, India will visit the Caribbean Islands for a full tour, starting with the first of the two Tests in Dominica on July 12.

Both Rahane and Pujara were part of the playing XI for the one-off title clash, which Australia won by 209 runs. Pujara fared poorly across both innings, scoring 14 and 27, whereas Rahane, who returned to the Test setup after a considerable gap, was the best batter – piling up 89 and 46 in the match. 
 
After his successful outing in the one-off Test, head coach Rahul Dravid promised an extended run for Rahane in Tests unless injury-hit middle order players Rishabh Pant and Shreyas Iyer make a comeback.

While Pujara will return playing for Sussex, for whom he played six games before the WTC Final, hitting three hundreds and a fifty from six matches, Rahane will represent Leicestershire. The right-hander signed a deal with Leicestershire in January and was supposed to play eight first-class games and the entire Royal London Cup (50-over tournament) from June to September following IPL 2023.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-returning-moeen-ali-fined-25-match-fee-handed-one-demerit-point-for-applying-spray-on-bowling-hand-605768">Ashes: Returning Moeen Ali fined 25% match fee, handed one demerit point for applying ‘spray’ on bowling hand</a>

However, with him getting picked for the WTC Final and also likely to be named for two-match West Indies Tests, Rahane’s Leicestershire stint got delayed.&nbsp;

"Ajinkya, after the two Tests in West Indies (scheduled to end on July 24), is supposed to fly directly to England and join Leicestershire for the remainder of the season," a BCCI source told PTI. "He will play the Royal London Cup in August and a possible four county games in September as he is unlikely to be a part of white-ball scheme of things."

Meanwhile, this will be Rahane’s second stint in the UK as part of their domestic tournament. Earlier, after getting ignored for the 2019 World Cup, the experienced campaigner played for Hampshire that season.

Since the Indian domestic season resumes around September and with no red-ball international series scheduled&nbsp;until the end of the home World Cup, Rahane will have ample time to iron out flaws and get back in reckoning for a sure-spot in the Test side.

Left-arm seamer Arshdeep Singh is the only Indian playing in the County Championships for Kent. He has played one game so far against Surrey, returning with four wickets.

Meanwhile, the BCCI selectors will announce the squads for the West Indies series on June 27.

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Tests specialists Ajinkya Rahane and Cheteshwar Pujara will return to playing in division two of the County Championship after India’s upcoming tour of the West Indies.

Tests specialists Ajinkya Rahane and Cheteshwar Pujara will return to playing in division two of the County Championship after India’s upcoming tour of the West Indies. Following the World Test Championship (WTC) Final against Australia in the UK, India will visit the Caribbean Islands for a full tour, starting with the first of the two Tests in Dominica on July 12. Both Rahane and Pujara were part of the playing XI for the one-off title clash, which Australia won by 209 runs. Pujara fared poorly across both innings, scoring 14 and 27, whereas Rahane, who returned to the Test setup after a considerable gap, was the best batter – piling up 89 and 46 in the match. After his successful outing in the one-off Test, head coach Rahul Dravid promised an extended run for Rahane in Tests unless injury-hit middle order players Rishabh Pant and Shreyas Iyer make a comeback. While Pujara will return playing for Sussex, for whom he played six games before the WTC Final, hitting three hundreds and a fifty from six matches, Rahane will represent Leicestershire. The right-hander signed a deal with Leicestershire in January and was supposed to play eight first-class games and the entire Royal London Cup (50-over tournament) from June to September following IPL 2023. ALSO READ: Ashes: Returning Moeen Ali fined 25% match fee, handed one demerit point for applying ‘spray’ on bowling hand However, with him getting picked for the WTC Final and also likely to be named for two-match West Indies Tests, Rahane’s Leicestershire stint got delayed. "Ajinkya, after the two Tests in West Indies (scheduled to end on July 24), is supposed to fly directly to England and join Leicestershire for the remainder of the season," a BCCI source told PTI. "He will play the Royal London Cup in August and a possible four county games in September as he is unlikely to be a part of white-ball scheme of things." Meanwhile, this will be Rahane’s second stint in the UK as part of their domestic tournament. Earlier, after getting ignored for the 2019 World Cup, the experienced campaigner played for Hampshire that season. Since the Indian domestic season resumes around September and with no red-ball international series scheduled until the end of the home World Cup, Rahane will have ample time to iron out flaws and get back in reckoning for a sure-spot in the Test side. Left-arm seamer Arshdeep Singh is the only Indian playing in the County Championships for Kent. He has played one game so far against Surrey, returning with four wickets. Meanwhile, the BCCI selectors will announce the squads for the West Indies series on June 27. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Ajinkya Rahane, Cheteshwar Pujara set to return to English County after West Indies tour

Ace bowling spearhead Mohammed Shami could likely be rested for the two Tests against West Indies, starting July 12. Shami, who since the Border-Gavaskar series in February-March has played regular cricket, might be getting the much-needed rest as selectors also ponder upon picking uncapped youngster Yashasvi Jaiswal for Cheteshwar Pujara.

After losing the World Test Championship (WTC) Final to Australia a few days ago, the Indian selectors were thought to make drastic changes, but that is not happening as things stand. While some players will be dropped and rested for India's first series for the next WTC cycle, the selectors are likely to stick with mainstays for now. More importantly, Rohit Sharma will continue as the Test skipper.

"Every Test is important, and its result contributes to the World Test Championship (WTC) points table. We cannot experiment in a Test match," a source close to the information said, as quoted by Cricbuzz.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-wtc-final-discard-ravi-ashwin-reviews-a-review-call-in-a-bizarre-incident-in-tnpl-2023-604606">WATCH - Ravi Ashwin reviews a 'review call' in bizarre incident in TNPL 2023</a>

Shami and Mohammed Siraj, India's spearheads in Jasprit Bumrah's absence, have played a major chunk of matches, including the IPL 2023, and selectors will consider their workload looking at two multi-team tournaments later this year.&nbsp;

While four of the top five who featured in the WTC Final against Australia - Shubman Gill, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Ajinkya Rahane will retain their spots - Pujara, who in the past 28 Tests scored just one hundred (110 against Bangladesh in Chittagong last year), could see himself making way for young Jaiswal.

Having made headlines after a breakthrough IPL 2023, Jaiswal was part of the backups for the WTC Final and now could see himself playing Test cricket in the Caribbean. The latest reports also suggest Jaiswal might be named in the T20I squad as well, where selectors are likely to announce a newer-looking team under stand-in captain Hardik Pandya.

<h2>Get ready for Sanju Samson's return</h2>

Alongside KS Bharat, who will retain his place in the Test squad, Ishan Kishan is sure to get picked for the white-ball teams. The biggest news here is Kerala and Rajasthan Royals star batter Sanju Samson is touted to make his much-anticipated return to the ODI and T20I squads for the West Indies series. Arshdeep Singh and Umran Malik will be part of the T20 side.

<h3>Here is the schedule of India’s tour of the West Indies –</h3>

Tests

<ul>
	<li>1st Test – July 12-16 – Dominica</li>
	<li>2nd Test – July 20-24 – Trinidad</li>
</ul>

ODIs

<ul>
	<li>1st ODI – July 27 – Barbados</li>
	<li>2nd ODI – July 29 – Barbados</li>
	<li>3rd ODI – August 1 – Trinidad</li>
</ul>

T20Is

<ul>
	<li>1st T20I – August 3 – Trinidad</li>
	<li>2nd T20I – August 6 – Guyana</li>
	<li>3rd T20I – August 8 – Guyana</li>
	<li>4th T20I – August 12 – Florida (USA)</li>
	<li>5th T20I – August 13 – Florida (USA)</li>
</ul>

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Ace bowling spearhead Mohammed Shami could likely be rested for the two Tests against West Indies, starting July 12. Shami, who since the Border-Gavaskar series in February-March has played regular cricket, might be getting the much-needed rest as selectors also ponder upon picking uncapped youngster Yashasvi Jaiswal for Cheteshwar Pujara.

Ace bowling spearhead Mohammed Shami could likely be rested for the two Tests against West Indies, starting July 12. Shami, who since the Border-Gavaskar series in February-March has played regular cricket, might be getting the much-needed rest as selectors also ponder upon picking uncapped youngster Yashasvi Jaiswal for Cheteshwar Pujara. After losing the World Test Championship (WTC) Final to Australia a few days ago, the Indian selectors were thought to make drastic changes, but that is not happening as things stand. While some players will be dropped and rested for India's first series for the next WTC cycle, the selectors are likely to stick with mainstays for now. More importantly, Rohit Sharma will continue as the Test skipper. "Every Test is important, and its result contributes to the World Test Championship (WTC) points table. We cannot experiment in a Test match," a source close to the information said, as quoted by Cricbuzz. ALSO READ: WATCH - Ravi Ashwin reviews a 'review call' in bizarre incident in TNPL 2023 Shami and Mohammed Siraj, India's spearheads in Jasprit Bumrah's absence, have played a major chunk of matches, including the IPL 2023, and selectors will consider their workload looking at two multi-team tournaments later this year. While four of the top five who featured in the WTC Final against Australia - Shubman Gill, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Ajinkya Rahane will retain their spots - Pujara, who in the past 28 Tests scored just one hundred (110 against Bangladesh in Chittagong last year), could see himself making way for young Jaiswal. Having made headlines after a breakthrough IPL 2023, Jaiswal was part of the backups for the WTC Final and now could see himself playing Test cricket in the Caribbean. The latest reports also suggest Jaiswal might be named in the T20I squad as well, where selectors are likely to announce a newer-looking team under stand-in captain Hardik Pandya. Get ready for Sanju Samson's return Alongside KS Bharat, who will retain his place in the Test squad, Ishan Kishan is sure to get picked for the white-ball teams. The biggest news here is Kerala and Rajasthan Royals star batter Sanju Samson is touted to make his much-anticipated return to the ODI and T20I squads for the West Indies series. Arshdeep Singh and Umran Malik will be part of the T20 side. Here is the schedule of India’s tour of the West Indies – Tests 1st Test – July 12-16 – Dominica 2nd Test – July 20-24 – Trinidad ODIs 1st ODI – July 27 – Barbados 2nd ODI – July 29 – Barbados 3rd ODI – August 1 – Trinidad T20Is 1st T20I – August 3 – Trinidad 2nd T20I – August 6 – Guyana 3rd T20I – August 8 – Guyana 4th T20I – August 12 – Florida (USA) 5th T20I – August 13 – Florida (USA) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

WI vs IND: Mohammed Shami to be rested, Yashasvi Jaiswal likely to replace Pujara in Test squad - Reports

Former India coach Ravi Shastri blasted senior batters Rohit Sharma and Cheteshwar Pujara for throwing away their wickets on day 4 of the World Test Championship (WTC) Final. Shastri was particularly miffed with Pujara for playing a shot out of his character.

“Never expected that shot from Pujara…that is get-out shot and he is back in the hut. It’s not the scoreboard pressure but poor shot selection.”

“Rohit and Pujara must be kicking themselves for the shots they played,” Shastri said on Star Sports after the end of play on day 4, reported news agency PTI.

Notably, Pujara got out trying to be cheeky as he attempted to upper cut Pat Cummins in the very next over after Rohit's dismissal. He scored 27 before heading back to the dressing room.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-it-was-clean-cameron-green-on-catch-to-dismiss-shubman-gill-on-day-4-603053">WTC Final: ‘It was clean...:’ Cameron Green on catch to dismiss Shubman Gill on day 4</a>

<h2>Kohli-Rahane set up interesting final day</h2>

After two quick dismissals, India were left three down for 93 with Australia having the upper hand but Virat Kohli, who finished the day unbeaten on 44 and Ajinkya Rahane, who scored 20 not out, kept the Kangaroos from jumping too high.

The duo has already added 71 runs for the fourth wicket and if India were to chase 444-run target, they both have to bat long on day 5. Shastri also agrees to same, saying India batsmen need to 'weather the storm in first session' to give themselves a shot at the title.

“Weathering the storm in the first session will be the key tomorrow. That is where the sting, if all, will be (on the pitch),” added Shastri. India were 164/3 at the end of day 4, needing 280 runs in maximum 90 overs to win the WTC Final.

<h2>Australia in command on day 4</h2>

Earlier, Australia continued to build on their lead from where they had left on day 3 - 123/4 to be exact. While the Baggy Green lost two quick wickets of Marnus Labuschagne and Cameroon Green, wicketkeeper Alex Carey scored 66 not out and added 93 runs with Mitchell Starc (41) for the seventh before Australia declared on 270/8.&nbsp;

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Former India coach Ravi Shastri blasted senior batters Rohit Sharma and Cheteshwar Pujara for throwing away their wickets on day 4 of the World Test Championship (WTC) Final.

Former India coach Ravi Shastri blasted senior batters Rohit Sharma and Cheteshwar Pujara for throwing away their wickets on day 4 of the World Test Championship (WTC) Final. Shastri was particularly miffed with Pujara for playing a shot out of his character. “Never expected that shot from Pujara…that is get-out shot and he is back in the hut. It’s not the scoreboard pressure but poor shot selection.” “Rohit and Pujara must be kicking themselves for the shots they played,” Shastri said on Star Sports after the end of play on day 4, reported news agency PTI. Notably, Pujara got out trying to be cheeky as he attempted to upper cut Pat Cummins in the very next over after Rohit's dismissal. He scored 27 before heading back to the dressing room. Also Read: WTC Final: ‘It was clean...:’ Cameron Green on catch to dismiss Shubman Gill on day 4 Kohli-Rahane set up interesting final day After two quick dismissals, India were left three down for 93 with Australia having the upper hand but Virat Kohli, who finished the day unbeaten on 44 and Ajinkya Rahane, who scored 20 not out, kept the Kangaroos from jumping too high. The duo has already added 71 runs for the fourth wicket and if India were to chase 444-run target, they both have to bat long on day 5. Shastri also agrees to same, saying India batsmen need to 'weather the storm in first session' to give themselves a shot at the title. “Weathering the storm in the first session will be the key tomorrow. That is where the sting, if all, will be (on the pitch),” added Shastri. India were 164/3 at the end of day 4, needing 280 runs in maximum 90 overs to win the WTC Final. Australia in command on day 4 Earlier, Australia continued to build on their lead from where they had left on day 3 - 123/4 to be exact. While the Baggy Green lost two quick wickets of Marnus Labuschagne and Cameroon Green, wicketkeeper Alex Carey scored 66 not out and added 93 runs with Mitchell Starc (41) for the seventh before Australia declared on 270/8. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

WTC Final: 'Never expected that...:' Ravi Shastri laments poor shot selection from Cheteshwar Pujara on day 4

India are set to face Australia in the upcoming ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final starting on June 07 (Wednesday) at the Kennington Oval, London. This will be India's second consecutive shot at winning the coveted Test mace after finishing second in the inaugural WTC cycle. Facing the second-ranked&nbsp;Australian team will be a huge challenge for India but Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. have a strong squad at their disposal to compete hard with the Aussies.

In their last series, India defeated Australia in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy at home (winning 2-1). However, playing the WTC summit clash at The Oval, London will pose a different challenge for both teams. Ahead of the finale, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar opened up on India's possible XI and highlighted a slot that might be a bit of a concern for No. 1 ranked Team India.&nbsp;

<h2>'No. 6 is where there is just a little bit of a concern'</h2>

“I will talk about the batting, and that will be Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill as one-two. No. 3 is (Cheteshwar) Pujara, No. 4 is (Virat) Kohli, No. 5 is Ajinkya Rahane. No. 6 is where there is just a little bit of a concern,” Gavaskar said on Star Sports.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-australia-favourites-on-paper-but-indian-players-have-edge-in-ravi-shastris-big-claim-600700">WTC Final: Australia favourites on paper but Indian players have edge in...' - Ravi Shastri's big claim</a>

Gavaskar asserted, “I would imagine No. 6 would be either (Srikar) Bharat or Ishan Kishan. They are talking about Bharat because he has played all these matches so far. So will probably stick with Bharat at six,” He added, “No. 7 will be (Ravindra) Jadeja. If it’s a bright day and a bright prediction, then I think you are looking at Jadeja and (Ravichandran) Ashwin at No. 7 and No. 8. No. 9, 10 and 11 will be Mohammad Shami, Mohammed Siraj and maybe Shardul Thakur."

If India emerge on top in the WTC final, they will break their ten-year-long ICC-title drought. Their last major title came in 2013 under legendary skipper MS Dhoni when they lifted the Champions Trophy.

India's final squad for WTC final:

Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane, KS Bharat (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Shardul Thakur, Mohd. Shami, Mohd. Siraj, Umesh Yadav, Jaydev Unadkat, Ishan Kishan (wk)

Standby players:&nbsp;Yashasvi Jaiswal, Mukesh Kumar, Suryakumar Yadav

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India are set to face Australia in the upcoming ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final starting on June 07 (Wednesday) at the Kennington Oval, London. This will be India's second consecutive shot at winning the coveted Test mace after finishing second in the inaugural WTC cycle.

India are set to face Australia in the upcoming ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final starting on June 07 (Wednesday) at the Kennington Oval, London. This will be India's second consecutive shot at winning the coveted Test mace after finishing second in the inaugural WTC cycle. Facing the second-ranked Australian team will be a huge challenge for India but Rohit Sharma & Co. have a strong squad at their disposal to compete hard with the Aussies. In their last series, India defeated Australia in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy at home (winning 2-1). However, playing the WTC summit clash at The Oval, London will pose a different challenge for both teams. Ahead of the finale, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar opened up on India's possible XI and highlighted a slot that might be a bit of a concern for No. 1 ranked Team India. 'No. 6 is where there is just a little bit of a concern' “I will talk about the batting, and that will be Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill as one-two. No. 3 is (Cheteshwar) Pujara, No. 4 is (Virat) Kohli, No. 5 is Ajinkya Rahane. No. 6 is where there is just a little bit of a concern,” Gavaskar said on Star Sports. Also Read: WTC Final: Australia favourites on paper but Indian players have edge in...' - Ravi Shastri's big claim Gavaskar asserted, “I would imagine No. 6 would be either (Srikar) Bharat or Ishan Kishan. They are talking about Bharat because he has played all these matches so far. So will probably stick with Bharat at six,” He added, “No. 7 will be (Ravindra) Jadeja. If it’s a bright day and a bright prediction, then I think you are looking at Jadeja and (Ravichandran) Ashwin at No. 7 and No. 8. No. 9, 10 and 11 will be Mohammad Shami, Mohammed Siraj and maybe Shardul Thakur." If India emerge on top in the WTC final, they will break their ten-year-long ICC-title drought. Their last major title came in 2013 under legendary skipper MS Dhoni when they lifted the Champions Trophy. India's final squad for WTC final: Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane, KS Bharat (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Shardul Thakur, Mohd. Shami, Mohd. Siraj, Umesh Yadav, Jaydev Unadkat, Ishan Kishan (wk) Standby players: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Mukesh Kumar, Suryakumar Yadav WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

No. 6 is bit of a concern: Sunil Gavaskar on India's playing XI ahead of marquee WTC final vs Australia

No. 1 ranked India are set to face Australia in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final on June 07 at The Oval, London. The match will present India with another chance to end their ICC title drought since 2013. It won't be an easy task as&nbsp;Australia will give them a tough challenge. Ahead of Rohit Sharma &amp; Co.'s final showdown versus the Aussies, former England spinner Monty Panesar picked one X-factor player apiece from both sides.

Panesar -- best known for his 17 scalps in England's famous 2-1 series win over hosts India in 2012/13 -- feels Cheteshwar Pujara will hold the key for India in the marquee finale whereas he picked Mitchell Starc as Australia's X-factor player.

<h2>'My X-factor batter will be Pujara for India. Starc will be one to watch out for from Australia'</h2>

"The Indian top-order is in form. The conditions will be similar to the Wankhede pitch which is fast and bouncy. My x-factor batter will be Pujara because he has done so well in these English conditions for Sussex. He is the guy who binds this batting lineup together," Panesar told PTI.

"He is good with his defence and if the ball is going to do a little bit, he can negotiate the Aussie bowlers and when the pitch is flat, the others can cash in with some attacking cricket. You don't need to be an extraordinary wicketkeeper in England. He has been keeping and batting well. He should play ahead of Bharat," he further mentioned.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ahead-of-wtc-final-showdown-indian-captain-rohit-sharma-picks-his-top-most-test-career-highlight-600837">Ahead of WTC final showdown, Indian captain Rohit Sharma picks his top-most Test career highlight</a>

"For Australia, Starc will be the one to watch out for. He is going to be quick and he is going to get that late movement. He can change the game with one spell. He is the guy Australia will go to when they need a wicket," Panesar added.

India and Australia locked horns in the red-ball format recently, during the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in India. Back then, Pujara returned with&nbsp;140 runs in 4 matches, with a best of 59 whereas Starc only managed two scalps from an equal number of games. Both will be raring to go big in the WTC final and help their respective sides emerge on top.

Australia squad: Pat Cummins (c), Scott Boland, Alex Carey (wk), Cameron Green, Marcus Harris, Travis Head, Josh Inglis (wk), Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Todd Murphy, Steve Smith (vc), Mitchell Starc, David Warner, Michael Neser.

Standby players: Mitch Marsh, Matthew Renshaw

India squad: Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane, KS Bharat (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Shardul Thakur, Mohd. Shami, Mohd. Siraj, Umesh Yadav, Jaydev Unadkat, Ishan Kishan (wk)

Standby players: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Mukesh Kumar, Suryakumar Yadav

No. 1 ranked India are set to face Australia in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final on June 07 at The Oval, London. The match will present India with another chance to end their ICC title drought since 2013.

No. 1 ranked India are set to face Australia in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final on June 07 at The Oval, London. The match will present India with another chance to end their ICC title drought since 2013. It won't be an easy task as Australia will give them a tough challenge. Ahead of Rohit Sharma & Co.'s final showdown versus the Aussies, former England spinner Monty Panesar picked one X-factor player apiece from both sides. Panesar -- best known for his 17 scalps in England's famous 2-1 series win over hosts India in 2012/13 -- feels Cheteshwar Pujara will hold the key for India in the marquee finale whereas he picked Mitchell Starc as Australia's X-factor player. 'My X-factor batter will be Pujara for India. Starc will be one to watch out for from Australia' "The Indian top-order is in form. The conditions will be similar to the Wankhede pitch which is fast and bouncy. My x-factor batter will be Pujara because he has done so well in these English conditions for Sussex. He is the guy who binds this batting lineup together," Panesar told PTI. "He is good with his defence and if the ball is going to do a little bit, he can negotiate the Aussie bowlers and when the pitch is flat, the others can cash in with some attacking cricket. You don't need to be an extraordinary wicketkeeper in England. He has been keeping and batting well. He should play ahead of Bharat," he further mentioned. Also Read: Ahead of WTC final showdown, Indian captain Rohit Sharma picks his top-most Test career highlight "For Australia, Starc will be the one to watch out for. He is going to be quick and he is going to get that late movement. He can change the game with one spell. He is the guy Australia will go to when they need a wicket," Panesar added. India and Australia locked horns in the red-ball format recently, during the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in India. Back then, Pujara returned with 140 runs in 4 matches, with a best of 59 whereas Starc only managed two scalps from an equal number of games. Both will be raring to go big in the WTC final and help their respective sides emerge on top. Australia squad: Pat Cummins (c), Scott Boland, Alex Carey (wk), Cameron Green, Marcus Harris, Travis Head, Josh Inglis (wk), Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Todd Murphy, Steve Smith (vc), Mitchell Starc, David Warner, Michael Neser. Standby players: Mitch Marsh, Matthew Renshaw India squad: Rohit Sharma (c), Shubman Gill, Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane, KS Bharat (wk), Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Shardul Thakur, Mohd. Shami, Mohd. Siraj, Umesh Yadav, Jaydev Unadkat, Ishan Kishan (wk) Standby players: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Mukesh Kumar, Suryakumar Yadav

WTC Final: Former England spinner names India and Australia's X-factor for mega clash

The forthcoming ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final is set to commence on June 7 at The Oval, London with India taking on the No. 1 ranked Australian team. Ahead of the summit clash, former Australian skipper Ricky Ponting spoke at length about the finale and mentioned two Indian batters who can pose major threat to Pat Cummins &amp; Co. and, hence, will be in their plans.

The Indian team has a plethora of star batters such as Shubman Gill, captain Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, etc. However, Ponting named Pujara and Kohli as two batters who will be the key players for their side and, thus, Australia will be talking and planning about them.&nbsp;

<h2>'Australia will be talking about Virat Kohli and Cheteshwar Pujara'</h2>

“The Australian team will be talking about Virat, no doubt about it, and they'll be talking about Pujara. They're the two,” Ponting said on&nbsp;The ICC Review. “Pujara has been a thorn in their side a lot in the past, and in Australia, and this wicket will potentially be a lot more like an Australian pitch. They know that they'll have to get him early," he stated.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-final-indian-players-practised-with-dukes-ball-during-ipl-2023-reveals-axar-patel-ahead-of-marquee-tie-599095">WTC Final: Indian players practised with Dukes ball during IPL 2023, reveals Axar Patel ahead of marquee tie</a>

“They also know that Virat over the last few weeks is probably just about back to his absolute best, albeit in T20 cricket. He told me that the feeling he's getting right now is that he's almost back to his best, and that's an ominous warning for the Australians going into a one-off game,” Ponting added.

It is to be noted that Kohli and Pujara have a good record versus the Aussies in the red-ball format. Pujara averages&nbsp;50.82 with five hundreds and 11 half-centuries whereas Kohli has eight tons and five fifties at an average of&nbsp;48.26 versus the Baggy Greens. In the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, Kohli ended his four-year-long Test century drought with a fine 183 in the fourth and final Test, in Ahmedabad, versus Pat Cummins &amp; Co.&nbsp;

The forthcoming ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final is set to commence on June 7 at The Oval, London with India taking on the No. 1 ranked Australian team. Ahead of the summit clash, former Australian skipper Ricky Ponting spoke at length about the finale and mentioned two Indian batters who can pose major threat to Pat Cummins & Co.

The forthcoming ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final is set to commence on June 7 at The Oval, London with India taking on the No. 1 ranked Australian team. Ahead of the summit clash, former Australian skipper Ricky Ponting spoke at length about the finale and mentioned two Indian batters who can pose major threat to Pat Cummins & Co. and, hence, will be in their plans. The Indian team has a plethora of star batters such as Shubman Gill, captain Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, etc. However, Ponting named Pujara and Kohli as two batters who will be the key players for their side and, thus, Australia will be talking and planning about them. 'Australia will be talking about Virat Kohli and Cheteshwar Pujara' “The Australian team will be talking about Virat, no doubt about it, and they'll be talking about Pujara. They're the two,” Ponting said on The ICC Review. “Pujara has been a thorn in their side a lot in the past, and in Australia, and this wicket will potentially be a lot more like an Australian pitch. They know that they'll have to get him early," he stated. Also Read: WTC Final: Indian players practised with Dukes ball during IPL 2023, reveals Axar Patel ahead of marquee tie “They also know that Virat over the last few weeks is probably just about back to his absolute best, albeit in T20 cricket. He told me that the feeling he's getting right now is that he's almost back to his best, and that's an ominous warning for the Australians going into a one-off game,” Ponting added. It is to be noted that Kohli and Pujara have a good record versus the Aussies in the red-ball format. Pujara averages 50.82 with five hundreds and 11 half-centuries whereas Kohli has eight tons and five fifties at an average of 48.26 versus the Baggy Greens. In the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, Kohli ended his four-year-long Test century drought with a fine 183 in the fourth and final Test, in Ahmedabad, versus Pat Cummins & Co.

WTC Final | Ricky Ponting names two Indian batters who would be major threat to Australia

Former India captain and commentator Sunil Gavaskar has highlighted the importance of Cheteshwar Pujara in the upcoming World Test Championship (WTC) final against Australia. The Indian batter has been in English conditions for the last few months, playing in the County Championship for Sussex. According to Gavaskar, Pujara’s inputs could be helpful for India as he knows the conditions better than anyone else from the rest of the squad.

<h2>Gavaskar highlights Pujara’s importance</h2>

"The fact that he has been around (in England) will mean that he will have also seen how the pitch has been behaving at The Oval. He might not have played at The Oval, and he might be in Sussex, not too far away from London, but he will have kept an eye on what is happening and his input will be invaluable as far as the batting unit is concerned or even as far as the captaincy is concerned," Gavaskar told Star Sports.

Gavaskar also spoke on Pujara’s stint as the skipper of the Sussex side where he shared the dressing room with Steve Smith. The former India captain admitted that his spell will help Rohit Sharma&nbsp;plan better strategies in the WTC final.

"He will have the captains here as far as the Oval pitch is concerned and don't forget he has also been captaining the team, so he definitely will have worked out quite a few strategies seeing that Steve Smith, the Australian is his teammate at the moment.

"I think they are going to look at their bat speed. Coming from T20 where the bat speed is very fast to Test cricket where the bat speeds got to be a lot more control, that is something they'll need to do," Gavaskar added.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-shouldve-played-odi-wc-2019-anil-kumble-recalls-csk-star-ambati-rayudus-shocking-omission-598771">'He should've played ODI WC 2019': Anil Kumble recalls CSK star Ambati Rayudu's shocking omission</a>

<h2>When is the WTC final?</h2>

The WTC final will take place on Wednesday, June 7 at the iconic Oval Stadium in London, with an opportunity for India to win a Grand Slam of ICC titles. As things stand, the WTC trophy remains the only piece missing from the puzzle. India won the ODI World Cup in 1983 and 2011, while they lifted the T20 World Cup in 2007 and won the Champions Trophy in 2000 and 2013.

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Former India captain and commentator Sunil Gavaskar has highlighted the importance of Cheteshwar Pujara in the upcoming World Test Championship (WTC) final against Australia.

Former India captain and commentator Sunil Gavaskar has highlighted the importance of Cheteshwar Pujara in the upcoming World Test Championship (WTC) final against Australia. The Indian batter has been in English conditions for the last few months, playing in the County Championship for Sussex. According to Gavaskar, Pujara’s inputs could be helpful for India as he knows the conditions better than anyone else from the rest of the squad. Gavaskar highlights Pujara’s importance "The fact that he has been around (in England) will mean that he will have also seen how the pitch has been behaving at The Oval. He might not have played at The Oval, and he might be in Sussex, not too far away from London, but he will have kept an eye on what is happening and his input will be invaluable as far as the batting unit is concerned or even as far as the captaincy is concerned," Gavaskar told Star Sports. Gavaskar also spoke on Pujara’s stint as the skipper of the Sussex side where he shared the dressing room with Steve Smith. The former India captain admitted that his spell will help Rohit Sharma plan better strategies in the WTC final. "He will have the captains here as far as the Oval pitch is concerned and don't forget he has also been captaining the team, so he definitely will have worked out quite a few strategies seeing that Steve Smith, the Australian is his teammate at the moment. "I think they are going to look at their bat speed. Coming from T20 where the bat speed is very fast to Test cricket where the bat speeds got to be a lot more control, that is something they'll need to do," Gavaskar added. ALSO READ | 'He should've played ODI WC 2019': Anil Kumble recalls CSK star Ambati Rayudu's shocking omission When is the WTC final? The WTC final will take place on Wednesday, June 7 at the iconic Oval Stadium in London, with an opportunity for India to win a Grand Slam of ICC titles. As things stand, the WTC trophy remains the only piece missing from the puzzle. India won the ODI World Cup in 1983 and 2011, while they lifted the T20 World Cup in 2007 and won the Champions Trophy in 2000 and 2013. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

WTC Final: Gavaskar underlines Pujara's importance in English conditions, says 'he would have kept an eye on'

Ahead of the India-Australia ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final face-off, which will take place early next month at The Oval, London, Cheteshwar Pujara and Steve Smith are set to play for Sussex. After Sussex acquired the Australian's services early this year -- with the batter&nbsp;to prepare for Ashes 2023 and WTC finale -- both Pujara and Smith will share the dressing room before they represent their respective sides in India-Australia's marquee face-off.

Pujara shared his excitement of playing along with Smith. The duo were part of the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, held in India, where Pujara-starrer India beat Smith's Australia 2-1.&nbsp;

"We have spoken, but most of the time we have played against each other. It is never for the same team, so it will be exciting to have him in the same side," Pujara was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indian-cricket-thrives-because-of-players-like-yashasvi-jaiswal-harbhajan-lauds-rrs-centurion-after-mi-tie-587792">Indian cricket thrives because of players like Yashasvi Jaiswal: Harbhajan lauds RR's centurion after MI tie</a>

Pujara further asserted, "I will try and get his thoughts, try and know him a little better. We will be playing the WTC final, so it will be mixed feelings. On the field we always have good battles, but off the field we are good friends."

"All of us are looking forward to having him here and sharing his experience. He has a lot of knowledge about the game so it will be nice to have his inputs," India's reliable No. 3&nbsp;concluded.

For Pujara, Sussex has been extremely lucky for him. After being dropped from India's Test squad early in 2022, he represented the club and amassed plenty of runs (1,094 in 13 County outings) to revive his red-ball career. In addition, he scored 624 runs in Royal London One-Day Cup last year (second-most overall) at a strike rate of 111.62. Overall, he ended the 2022 season with eight tons (five in County -- including a double ton --&nbsp;and three in the ODI tournament).

Pujara has already started the 2023 season on a high, with two centuries for Sussex in the ongoing&nbsp;County Championship Division Two.

Ahead of the India-Australia ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final face-off, which will take place early next month at The Oval, London, Cheteshwar Pujara and Steve Smith are set to play for Sussex.

Ahead of the India-Australia ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final face-off, which will take place early next month at The Oval, London, Cheteshwar Pujara and Steve Smith are set to play for Sussex. After Sussex acquired the Australian's services early this year -- with the batter to prepare for Ashes 2023 and WTC finale -- both Pujara and Smith will share the dressing room before they represent their respective sides in India-Australia's marquee face-off. Pujara shared his excitement of playing along with Smith. The duo were part of the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, held in India, where Pujara-starrer India beat Smith's Australia 2-1. "We have spoken, but most of the time we have played against each other. It is never for the same team, so it will be exciting to have him in the same side," Pujara was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo. Also Read: Indian cricket thrives because of players like Yashasvi Jaiswal: Harbhajan lauds RR's centurion after MI tie Pujara further asserted, "I will try and get his thoughts, try and know him a little better. We will be playing the WTC final, so it will be mixed feelings. On the field we always have good battles, but off the field we are good friends." "All of us are looking forward to having him here and sharing his experience. He has a lot of knowledge about the game so it will be nice to have his inputs," India's reliable No. 3 concluded. For Pujara, Sussex has been extremely lucky for him. After being dropped from India's Test squad early in 2022, he represented the club and amassed plenty of runs (1,094 in 13 County outings) to revive his red-ball career. In addition, he scored 624 runs in Royal London One-Day Cup last year (second-most overall) at a strike rate of 111.62. Overall, he ended the 2022 season with eight tons (five in County -- including a double ton -- and three in the ODI tournament). Pujara has already started the 2023 season on a high, with two centuries for Sussex in the ongoing County Championship Division Two.

'Will try and know him a little better': Pujara excited to play with Steve Smith in Sussex before WTC final

The Border-Gavaskar series ended after a dull day of Test cricket in Ahmedabad on the final day of the final Test and India took the series 2-1. Skippers Rohit Sharma and Steve Smith decided to call the Test off shortly after Tea soon after India completed minimum number of overs to be bowled.

The Indian skipper, however, ensured a moment of laugh for everyone on the ground and those watching from home as he tossed the ball up to opening batsman Shubman Gill and modern-day 'The Wall' Cheteshwar Pujara. Shubman Gill tried 1.1 overs of off-spin while Pujara bowled an over of leg-breaks.

India's premier off-spinner Ravi Ashwin, however, took a cheeky dig at Pujara in a tweet.&nbsp;

"Main kya karu? Job chod du?' (What should I do? Quit my job?)," wrote Ashwin in a playful manner with a picture of Pujara. Have a look at the tweet below:

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Main kya karu? Job chod du? 😂 <a href="https://t.co/R0mJqnALJ6">pic.twitter.com/R0mJqnALJ6</a>
— Ashwin 🇮🇳 (@ashwinravi99) <a href="https://twitter.com/ashwinravi99/status/1635227163086708741?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 13, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Ashwin's comment was inspired by a very popular social-media with the same caption that had been viral for a long time in the past. Pujara also replied to Ashwin in the same manner with the following tweet:

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Nahi. This was just to say thank you for going 1 down in Nagpur 😂 <a href="https://t.co/VbE92u6SXz">https://t.co/VbE92u6SXz</a>
— Cheteshwar Pujara (@cheteshwar1) <a href="https://twitter.com/cheteshwar1/status/1635249006417940482?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 13, 2023</a></blockquote>
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India, however, won the series in the end with Ravi Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja being two most prolific bowlers for them.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-virat-kohlis-endearing-gestures-for-alex-carey-usman-khawja-after-ahmedabad-test-wins-hearts-571760">WATCH: Virat Kohli's ENDEARING gesture for Alex Carey, Usman Khawaja after Ahmedabad Test wins hearts</a>

Ravi Ashwin also won his 10th Man-of-the-Series award for taking 25 wickets in the series across four Tests while Jadeja also picked 22 wickets, including a seven-wicket haul in the second innings of Australia in Delhi which effectively ensured an unassailable lead for India.

Talking about the batsmen, Cheteshwar Pujara, who played his 100th Test for India in Delhi, had a quiet series as he managed just 140 runs in six innings at an average of 28 with one fifty-plus score.

Shubman Gill, who came as a replacement of KL Rahul for the last two Tests, scored 154 runs in three innings at an average of 51.33, including a century in the final Test. It was his 128 in the final Test that helped India post a total of 571/9 in first innings in Ahmedabad.

The Border-Gavaskar series ended after a dull day of Test cricket in Ahmedabad on the final day of the final Test and India took the series 2-1. Skippers Rohit Sharma and Steve Smith decided to call the Test off shortly after Tea soon after India completed minimum number of overs to be bowled.

The Border-Gavaskar series ended after a dull day of Test cricket in Ahmedabad on the final day of the final Test and India took the series 2-1. Skippers Rohit Sharma and Steve Smith decided to call the Test off shortly after Tea soon after India completed minimum number of overs to be bowled. The Indian skipper, however, ensured a moment of laugh for everyone on the ground and those watching from home as he tossed the ball up to opening batsman Shubman Gill and modern-day 'The Wall' Cheteshwar Pujara. Shubman Gill tried 1.1 overs of off-spin while Pujara bowled an over of leg-breaks. India's premier off-spinner Ravi Ashwin, however, took a cheeky dig at Pujara in a tweet. "Main kya karu? Job chod du?' (What should I do? Quit my job?)," wrote Ashwin in a playful manner with a picture of Pujara. Have a look at the tweet below: Main kya karu? Job chod du? 😂 pic.twitter.com/R0mJqnALJ6 — Ashwin 🇮🇳 (@ashwinravi99) March 13, 2023 × Ashwin's comment was inspired by a very popular social-media with the same caption that had been viral for a long time in the past. Pujara also replied to Ashwin in the same manner with the following tweet: Nahi. This was just to say thank you for going 1 down in Nagpur 😂 https://t.co/VbE92u6SXz — Cheteshwar Pujara (@cheteshwar1) March 13, 2023 × India, however, won the series in the end with Ravi Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja being two most prolific bowlers for them. Also Read: WATCH: Virat Kohli's ENDEARING gesture for Alex Carey, Usman Khawaja after Ahmedabad Test wins hearts Ravi Ashwin also won his 10th Man-of-the-Series award for taking 25 wickets in the series across four Tests while Jadeja also picked 22 wickets, including a seven-wicket haul in the second innings of Australia in Delhi which effectively ensured an unassailable lead for India. Talking about the batsmen, Cheteshwar Pujara, who played his 100th Test for India in Delhi, had a quiet series as he managed just 140 runs in six innings at an average of 28 with one fifty-plus score. Shubman Gill, who came as a replacement of KL Rahul for the last two Tests, scored 154 runs in three innings at an average of 51.33, including a century in the final Test. It was his 128 in the final Test that helped India post a total of 571/9 in first innings in Ahmedabad.

Ravi Ashwin tries trolling Cheteshwar Pujara, batsman comes back with CHEEKY reply | See Post

A maiden Border-Gavaskar Trophy hundred for opener Shubman Gill powered India to 289 for three at stumps on day three of the final Test in Ahmedabad. Not only him, former India captain Virat Kohli also notched up his first fifty of the series. Skipper Rohit Sharma and Cheteshwar Pujara also chipped in with handy knocks of 35 and 42, respectively.

India began day three with both openers taking down the lone Aussie seamer Mitchell Starc, who kept bowling defensive line and length early on. Barring odd boundaries around fine leg area, it was Rohit’s trade-mark pull shot off Starc that saw the crowd go crazy. However, for the nth time in this series, Rohit gave away his wicket to Matthew Kuhnemann on 35 after a good start.

Standing tall on the other hand, Gill continued playing his short-arm jabs and kept churning out fours off bad deliveries. His partner Cheteshwar Pujara played a typical Pujara innings, tiring the Aussies in the 40 degree heat at the Narendra Modi Stadium.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/daryl-mitchells-102-keep-new-zealand-alive-in-first-test-as-wtc-finals-spot-looms-over-for-india-sri-lanka-570870">Daryl Mitchell's 102 keeps New Zealand alive in first Test as WTC final's spot looms over for India, Sri Lanka</a>

In the meantime, Gill notched up his first Test hundred against Australia and soon after Todd Murphy trapped Pujara in front with a straight one on 42. Then walked down Virat Kohli who looked confident in turning tables around this time.

As both started to look comfortable out there, the experienced Nathan Lyon came up with a beauty of a delivery to dismiss Gill on 128 off 235 balls. Like Pujara, Gill was also found wanting while playing a wrong line as he was caught plumb in front.

For the second time in two Tests, Ravindra Jadeja was sent ahead of batter Shreyas Iyer, and this ploy worked well for India as both Kohli and Jadeja kept rotating strike, further frustrating the Aussies.

Before stumps on day three, Virat also brought up his first fifty, the first since January 2022, much to the delight of everyone present inside the stadium. India ended day three on 289 for three as they still train by 191 runs.

Meanwhile, for India to punch their ticket for the WTC final, they need to beat Australia in this Test or else hope for New Zealand to beat Sri Lanka in at least one match in the home series.

A maiden Border-Gavaskar Trophy hundred for opener Shubman Gill powered India to 289 for three at stumps on day three of the final Test in Ahmedabad. Not only him, former India captain Virat Kohli also notched up his first fifty of the series.

A maiden Border-Gavaskar Trophy hundred for opener Shubman Gill powered India to 289 for three at stumps on day three of the final Test in Ahmedabad. Not only him, former India captain Virat Kohli also notched up his first fifty of the series. Skipper Rohit Sharma and Cheteshwar Pujara also chipped in with handy knocks of 35 and 42, respectively. India began day three with both openers taking down the lone Aussie seamer Mitchell Starc, who kept bowling defensive line and length early on. Barring odd boundaries around fine leg area, it was Rohit’s trade-mark pull shot off Starc that saw the crowd go crazy. However, for the nth time in this series, Rohit gave away his wicket to Matthew Kuhnemann on 35 after a good start. Standing tall on the other hand, Gill continued playing his short-arm jabs and kept churning out fours off bad deliveries. His partner Cheteshwar Pujara played a typical Pujara innings, tiring the Aussies in the 40 degree heat at the Narendra Modi Stadium. ALSO READ: Daryl Mitchell's 102 keeps New Zealand alive in first Test as WTC final's spot looms over for India, Sri Lanka In the meantime, Gill notched up his first Test hundred against Australia and soon after Todd Murphy trapped Pujara in front with a straight one on 42. Then walked down Virat Kohli who looked confident in turning tables around this time. As both started to look comfortable out there, the experienced Nathan Lyon came up with a beauty of a delivery to dismiss Gill on 128 off 235 balls. Like Pujara, Gill was also found wanting while playing a wrong line as he was caught plumb in front. For the second time in two Tests, Ravindra Jadeja was sent ahead of batter Shreyas Iyer, and this ploy worked well for India as both Kohli and Jadeja kept rotating strike, further frustrating the Aussies. Before stumps on day three, Virat also brought up his first fifty, the first since January 2022, much to the delight of everyone present inside the stadium. India ended day three on 289 for three as they still train by 191 runs. Meanwhile, for India to punch their ticket for the WTC final, they need to beat Australia in this Test or else hope for New Zealand to beat Sri Lanka in at least one match in the home series.

IND vs AUS, 4th Test, day 3: India crawl back into Ahmedabad Test with Shubman Gill's maiden BGT century

India’s Cheteshwar Pujara will look to join a special club of players on Day 3 of the Ahmedabad Test as Team India look to narrow down a massive deposit in the first innings. The Saurashtra batter has been a great servant of Indian cricket down the years as he looks to add yet another feather to his impressive career. Needing just nine runs on Day 3 of the Ahmedabad Test, Pujara will join Sachin Tendulkar and coach Rahul Dravid in a special club of players which also has a place for former Australia skipper Ricky Ponting.

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That will be Stumps on Day 2⃣ of the Fourth <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvAUS</a> Test! 
 
Another gripping day of Test Cricket as <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> 🇮🇳 reach 36/0 at the end of day's play! 
 
We will be back with more action tomorrow as an exciting Day 3 awaits! 
 
Scorecard ▶️ <a href="https://t.co/8DPghkwsO6">https://t.co/8DPghkwsO6</a>…<a href="https://twitter.com/mastercardindia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mastercardindia</a> <a href="https://t.co/WZMm7tsN1U">pic.twitter.com/WZMm7tsN1U</a>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1634156009739501568?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 10, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h3>Pujara to join 2000-run club in BGT</h3>

Pujara, 35, recently played in his 100th Test match and needs nine more runs against Australia on Day 3 to complete 2000 runs in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. One of the modern-day greats for India, the right-hand batter is currently on 1991 runs in 24 matches (42 innings). He stands ahead of Virat Kohli in the tally while also being the highest scorer amongst active players from India and Australia. If he does manage to score 59 runs on Day 3, he will surpass former Aussie skipper Michael Clarke who currently resides at fifth.

<h3>Who else is part of the club?</h3>

Currently, India’s all-time great Sachin Tendulkar leads the chart with 3630 runs in 39 matches (74 innings) while he is followed by Ricky Ponting with 2555 runs in 29 matches (51 innings). VVS Laxman, another legend of the game comes third on the list with 2434 runs in 29 matches (54 innings). Rahul Dravid and Michael Clarke come next on the chart before Pujara takes his place in the standings. Virat Kohli is currently on 1793 runs and will need 207 runs to join the club.

<h3>ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ahmedabad-test-pitch-a-big-learning-curve-for-rohit-sharma-says-ex-india-head-coach-ravi-shastri-570558">Ahmedabad Test pitch a big learning curve for Rohit Sharma, says ex-India head coach Ravi Shastri</a></h3>

<h3>What happened on Day 2?</h3>

India came unscratched at stumps on Day 2 with the scoreboard reading 36/0 as Shubman Gill and Rohit Sharma look to put India into a good position. Australia scored 480 in their first innings as Usman Khawaja (180) and Cameron Green (114) were the architects of the innings as they both stitched a fifth wicket stand of 208 runs.

India’s Cheteshwar Pujara will look to join a special club of players on Day 3 of the Ahmedabad Test as Team India look to narrow down a massive deposit in the first innings.

India’s Cheteshwar Pujara will look to join a special club of players on Day 3 of the Ahmedabad Test as Team India look to narrow down a massive deposit in the first innings. The Saurashtra batter has been a great servant of Indian cricket down the years as he looks to add yet another feather to his impressive career. Needing just nine runs on Day 3 of the Ahmedabad Test, Pujara will join Sachin Tendulkar and coach Rahul Dravid in a special club of players which also has a place for former Australia skipper Ricky Ponting. That will be Stumps on Day 2⃣ of the Fourth #INDvAUS Test! Another gripping day of Test Cricket as #TeamIndia 🇮🇳 reach 36/0 at the end of day's play! We will be back with more action tomorrow as an exciting Day 3 awaits! Scorecard ▶️ https://t.co/8DPghkwsO6…@mastercardindia pic.twitter.com/WZMm7tsN1U — BCCI (@BCCI) March 10, 2023 × Pujara to join 2000-run club in BGT Pujara, 35, recently played in his 100th Test match and needs nine more runs against Australia on Day 3 to complete 2000 runs in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. One of the modern-day greats for India, the right-hand batter is currently on 1991 runs in 24 matches (42 innings). He stands ahead of Virat Kohli in the tally while also being the highest scorer amongst active players from India and Australia. If he does manage to score 59 runs on Day 3, he will surpass former Aussie skipper Michael Clarke who currently resides at fifth. Who else is part of the club? Currently, India’s all-time great Sachin Tendulkar leads the chart with 3630 runs in 39 matches (74 innings) while he is followed by Ricky Ponting with 2555 runs in 29 matches (51 innings). VVS Laxman, another legend of the game comes third on the list with 2434 runs in 29 matches (54 innings). Rahul Dravid and Michael Clarke come next on the chart before Pujara takes his place in the standings. Virat Kohli is currently on 1793 runs and will need 207 runs to join the club. ALSO READ | Ahmedabad Test pitch a big learning curve for Rohit Sharma, says ex-India head coach Ravi Shastri What happened on Day 2? India came unscratched at stumps on Day 2 with the scoreboard reading 36/0 as Shubman Gill and Rohit Sharma look to put India into a good position. Australia scored 480 in their first innings as Usman Khawaja (180) and Cameron Green (114) were the architects of the innings as they both stitched a fifth wicket stand of 208 runs.

IND vs AUS 4th Test: Cheteshwar Pujara on brink of special club as Team India eye comeback with bat

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