<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&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></p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>


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

<p>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.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">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!<br />
<br />
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!<br />
<br />
We will be back with more action tomorrow as an exciting Day 3 awaits!<br />
<br />
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></p>
— 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>

<p>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.</p>

<h3>Who else is part of the club?</h3>

<p>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.</p>

<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>

<p>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.</p>


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

<p>Ahead of the fourth and final Test versus Australia, in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, the Rohit Sharma-led Indian team celebrated Holi, the festival of colours, in Ahmedabad. The fourth and final Test kicks off at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad on Thursday (March 9) but before that the home side made sure to enjoy the festival in the dressing room, team bus&nbsp;along with support staff and security personnel.</p>

<p>Captain Rohit led the charge in the celebrations as he started applying colour before Suryakumar Yadav, Ishan Kishan, Ravindra Jadeja, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Cheteshwar Pujara and others joined in. Here's the viral video, shared on BCCI's official Twitter handle, where the Indian players were seen celebrating the joyous occasion:</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-4th-test-team-india-goes-full-of-colours-as-players-staff-celebrate-holi-ahead-of-ahmedabad-clash-569661">IND vs AUS 4th Test: Team India goes full of colours as players, staff celebrate Holi ahead of Ahmedabad clash</a></strong></p>

<p>BCCI captioned the post, "Colours, smiles &amp; more! Do not miss #TeamIndia's Holi celebration in Ahmedabad". <strong>Watch video:</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Colours, smiles &amp; more! 🥳 ☺️<br />
<br />
Do not miss <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a>’s Holi celebration in Ahmedabad 🎨 <a href="https://t.co/jOAKsxayBA">pic.twitter.com/jOAKsxayBA</a></p>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1633351211792633856?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 8, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>India lead the four-match series, 2-1, but lost the third and penultimate Test in Indore by nine wickets and the series became alive even though India have already taken an unassailable lead. While Australia, who have already qualified for the WTC final, will aim for a memorable 2-2 scoreline, Rohit &amp; Co. will be desperate to win the series 3-1 and get the ticket to enter the WTC summit clash. If India lose or the series finale ends in a draw, they will hope for New Zealand to not lose both their Tests versus visitors Sri Lanka with their series kicking off on Thursday as well, in Christchurch.</p>

<p>Apart from India, Sri Lanka also have a faint chance of entering the WTC final. Nonetheless, Rohit &amp; Co. can put an end to SL's hopes with a win in Ahmedabad.</p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>


Ahead of the fourth and final Test versus Australia, in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, the Rohit Sharma-led Indian team celebrated Holi, the festival of colours, in Ahmedabad.

Ahead of the fourth and final Test versus Australia, in the 2022/23 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, the Rohit Sharma-led Indian team celebrated Holi, the festival of colours, in Ahmedabad. The fourth and final Test kicks off at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium, Ahmedabad on Thursday (March 9) but before that the home side made sure to enjoy the festival in the dressing room, team bus along with support staff and security personnel. Captain Rohit led the charge in the celebrations as he started applying colour before Suryakumar Yadav, Ishan Kishan, Ravindra Jadeja, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Cheteshwar Pujara and others joined in. Here's the viral video, shared on BCCI's official Twitter handle, where the Indian players were seen celebrating the joyous occasion: Also read: IND vs AUS 4th Test: Team India goes full of colours as players, staff celebrate Holi ahead of Ahmedabad clash BCCI captioned the post, "Colours, smiles & more! Do not miss #TeamIndia's Holi celebration in Ahmedabad". Watch video: Colours, smiles & more! 🥳 ☺️ Do not miss #TeamIndia’s Holi celebration in Ahmedabad 🎨 pic.twitter.com/jOAKsxayBA — BCCI (@BCCI) March 8, 2023 × India lead the four-match series, 2-1, but lost the third and penultimate Test in Indore by nine wickets and the series became alive even though India have already taken an unassailable lead. While Australia, who have already qualified for the WTC final, will aim for a memorable 2-2 scoreline, Rohit & Co. will be desperate to win the series 3-1 and get the ticket to enter the WTC summit clash. If India lose or the series finale ends in a draw, they will hope for New Zealand to not lose both their Tests versus visitors Sri Lanka with their series kicking off on Thursday as well, in Christchurch. Apart from India, Sri Lanka also have a faint chance of entering the WTC final. Nonetheless, Rohit & Co. can put an end to SL's hopes with a win in Ahmedabad. ×

UNMISSABLE! Rohit Sharma leads the charge as Team India celebrate Holi in Ahmedabad - Watch

<p>Day 2 of the third and penultimate Test between India and Australia, in Indore, saw Australia get dismissed for 197 -- resuming the day from 156 for 4 -- after dismissing Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. for 109 on Day 1. In their second essay, India only managed 163 all-out , setting a paltry 76-run target for the visitors. The third day will commence, on Friday (March 03), with Australia needing only 76 to make the four-match series scoreline 2-1.&nbsp;</p>

<p>From India's perspective, only Cheteshwar Pujara looked comfortable in the middle during their second innings. While India had a chance to wipe out the deficit and set a challenging target but none of their star batters made a mark. Pujara was the lone warrior who fell for an impressive 142-ball 59. He was dismissed by Nathan Lyon -- who returned with a stunning 8 for 64 -- but stand-in captain Steve Smith won all the accolodes for Pujara's dismissal by pulling off a one-handed stunner at leg slip. Pujara flicked a delivery off Lyon and it went low to Smith's right hand. The 33-year-old was proactive enough to grab the ball in a flash and send Pujara packing. <strong>Here's the video:</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Steve Smith 🙏😮<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/pujara?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#pujara</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/cheteshwarpujara?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#cheteshwarpujara</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvAUS</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvsAUSTest?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvsAUSTest</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndvsAus?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndvsAus</a> <a href="https://t.co/FwoFM2wmD7">pic.twitter.com/FwoFM2wmD7</a></p>
— ßivek¹⁸ (@Bvekgupta) <a href="https://twitter.com/Bvekgupta/status/1631253275587792897?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 2, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-3rd-test-unplayable-umesh-yadav-sends-mitchell-starcs-stumps-flying-with-a-jaffa-watch-567629">IND vs AUS, 3rd Test: UNPLAYABLE! Umesh Yadav sends Mitchell Starc's stumps flying with a jaffa - Watch</a></strong></p>

<p>After Pujara's dismissal, India were reduced to 155 for 8. From thereon, Axar Patel tried to go big and add to India's lead before he ran out of partners as the home side got dismissed for 163 in 60.3 overs. After stumps on Day 2, Pujara told the broadcasters, "It is a tough pitch to bat on. It is not easy and you need to trust your defence, you need to make sure to get to the pitch of the ball and try to judge the length early. I know it is not enough but still there is a chance (to win). You need to do that on such pitches, if you keep defending then there's one ball which will bounce and hit your glove, you need to find the right balance between attack and defence."</p>

<p>On his dismissal and Smith's brilliance, Pujara said, "It was a brilliant catch by Smith. Bit disappointed, the way things were coming along.. a partnership with Axar, we could have gotten a few more. I am learning few more shots and if there's a situation or demand then you get few quick runs, I have been working on that and I'm confident that whenever it is needed I can play the (big) shot."</p>


Day 2 of the third and penultimate Test between India and Australia, in Indore, saw Australia get dismissed for 197 -- resuming the day from 156 for 4 -- after dismissing Rohit Sharma & Co.

Day 2 of the third and penultimate Test between India and Australia, in Indore, saw Australia get dismissed for 197 -- resuming the day from 156 for 4 -- after dismissing Rohit Sharma & Co. for 109 on Day 1. In their second essay, India only managed 163 all-out , setting a paltry 76-run target for the visitors. The third day will commence, on Friday (March 03), with Australia needing only 76 to make the four-match series scoreline 2-1. From India's perspective, only Cheteshwar Pujara looked comfortable in the middle during their second innings. While India had a chance to wipe out the deficit and set a challenging target but none of their star batters made a mark. Pujara was the lone warrior who fell for an impressive 142-ball 59. He was dismissed by Nathan Lyon -- who returned with a stunning 8 for 64 -- but stand-in captain Steve Smith won all the accolodes for Pujara's dismissal by pulling off a one-handed stunner at leg slip. Pujara flicked a delivery off Lyon and it went low to Smith's right hand. The 33-year-old was proactive enough to grab the ball in a flash and send Pujara packing. Here's the video: Steve Smith 🙏😮#pujara #cheteshwarpujara #INDvAUS #INDvsAUSTest #IndvsAus pic.twitter.com/FwoFM2wmD7 — ßivek¹⁸ (@Bvekgupta) March 2, 2023 × Also Read: IND vs AUS, 3rd Test: UNPLAYABLE! Umesh Yadav sends Mitchell Starc's stumps flying with a jaffa - Watch After Pujara's dismissal, India were reduced to 155 for 8. From thereon, Axar Patel tried to go big and add to India's lead before he ran out of partners as the home side got dismissed for 163 in 60.3 overs. After stumps on Day 2, Pujara told the broadcasters, "It is a tough pitch to bat on. It is not easy and you need to trust your defence, you need to make sure to get to the pitch of the ball and try to judge the length early. I know it is not enough but still there is a chance (to win). You need to do that on such pitches, if you keep defending then there's one ball which will bounce and hit your glove, you need to find the right balance between attack and defence." On his dismissal and Smith's brilliance, Pujara said, "It was a brilliant catch by Smith. Bit disappointed, the way things were coming along.. a partnership with Axar, we could have gotten a few more. I am learning few more shots and if there's a situation or demand then you get few quick runs, I have been working on that and I'm confident that whenever it is needed I can play the (big) shot."

WATCH: Steve Smith pulls off a stunner to dismiss Cheteshwar Pujara on Day 2 of Indore Test

<p>In the second Test between India and Australia, Cheteshwar Pujara played his 100th game in the red-ball format. India's No. 3 has been one of the most dependable batters in the batting line-up since his international debut. He has amassed&nbsp;7,052 runs in his glorious career and has been one of the key players in India's stupendous rise in Tests, especially during the Virat Kohli captaincy era.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At 35, Pujara is in the last phase of his international career. Whenever he will announce his retirement, he will leave a huge void in the batting line-up. Ahead of the third and penultimate Test between India and Australia, which kicked off on Wednesday (March 01) in Indore, former Indian opener&nbsp;Wasim Jaffer shared his pick on who can succeed Pujara at No. 3 after he hangs up his boots.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I think Shreyas Iyer is the best option to succeed Cheteshwar Pujara at No.3. He has batted at No.3 for Mumbai and he is an attacking batter. If someone can come in at No.3 and score intently, putting the bowlers on the backfoot will do India a lot of good. Pujara has been brilliant at No.3," said Jaffer on his Youtube channel.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Who can be Pujara's successor?<br />
Full video: <a href="https://t.co/OrGoCXiKOH">https://t.co/OrGoCXiKOH</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvAUS</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BGT2023?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BGT2023</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ItsAJaffa?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ItsAJaffa</a> <a href="https://t.co/96StGjLOdK">pic.twitter.com/96StGjLOdK</a></p>
— Wasim Jaffer (@WasimJaffer14) <a href="https://twitter.com/WasimJaffer14/status/1630575129267965953?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 28, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-indore-test-explained-how-rohit-sharma-co-can-confirm-a-slot-in-wtc-final-567025">IND vs AUS, Indore Test: EXPLAINED! How Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. can confirm a slot in WTC final</a></strong></p>

<p>Iyer made his Test debut in late 2021, announcing his arrival with a ton and fifty in his maiden game. He ended as the second-highest run-getter for India in whites in 2022, amassing 422 runs in 5 Tests including four fifties. In the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy, he has not been in good form after missing the series opener. So far, he has managed scores of 4,12 and 0. He will be eager to get a big score in India's second essay after Rohit Sharma &amp; Co. were bundled out for a paltry 109 (opting to bat first) on Day 1 of the Indore Test.&nbsp;</p>


In the second Test between India and Australia, Cheteshwar Pujara played his 100th game in the red-ball format. India's No. 3 has been one of the most dependable batters in the batting line-up since his international debut.

In the second Test between India and Australia, Cheteshwar Pujara played his 100th game in the red-ball format. India's No. 3 has been one of the most dependable batters in the batting line-up since his international debut. He has amassed 7,052 runs in his glorious career and has been one of the key players in India's stupendous rise in Tests, especially during the Virat Kohli captaincy era. At 35, Pujara is in the last phase of his international career. Whenever he will announce his retirement, he will leave a huge void in the batting line-up. Ahead of the third and penultimate Test between India and Australia, which kicked off on Wednesday (March 01) in Indore, former Indian opener Wasim Jaffer shared his pick on who can succeed Pujara at No. 3 after he hangs up his boots. "I think Shreyas Iyer is the best option to succeed Cheteshwar Pujara at No.3. He has batted at No.3 for Mumbai and he is an attacking batter. If someone can come in at No.3 and score intently, putting the bowlers on the backfoot will do India a lot of good. Pujara has been brilliant at No.3," said Jaffer on his Youtube channel. Who can be Pujara's successor? Full video: https://t.co/OrGoCXiKOH #INDvAUS #BGT2023 #ItsAJaffa pic.twitter.com/96StGjLOdK — Wasim Jaffer (@WasimJaffer14) February 28, 2023 × Also Read: IND vs AUS, Indore Test: EXPLAINED! How Rohit Sharma & Co. can confirm a slot in WTC final Iyer made his Test debut in late 2021, announcing his arrival with a ton and fifty in his maiden game. He ended as the second-highest run-getter for India in whites in 2022, amassing 422 runs in 5 Tests including four fifties. In the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy, he has not been in good form after missing the series opener. So far, he has managed scores of 4,12 and 0. He will be eager to get a big score in India's second essay after Rohit Sharma & Co. were bundled out for a paltry 109 (opting to bat first) on Day 1 of the Indore Test.

He is the best option to succeed Cheteshwar Pujara at No. 3: Wasim Jaffer pins hopes on India's star batter

<p>On Friday (February 17), India locked horns with Australia in the second Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2023, in New Delhi. As India took the field, after losing the toss and being asked to bowl first, Indian players gave a 'guard of honour' to Cheteshwar Pujara as the No. 3 batter entered the 100-Test club.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As the Rohit Sharma-led Indian players came out, they assembled and honoured Pujara for becoming the 13th Indian to play 100, or more, Tests. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) shared a video of the same and captioned it: A guard of honour and a warm welcome for @cheteshwar1 on his 100th Test". Here's the clip:</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A guard of honour and a warm welcome for <a href="https://twitter.com/cheteshwar1?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@cheteshwar1</a> on his 1⃣0⃣0⃣th Test 😃👌<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvAUS</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/mastercardindia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mastercardindia</a> <a href="https://t.co/jZoY1mjctu">pic.twitter.com/jZoY1mjctu</a></p>
— BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1626435295460884482?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 17, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/chetan-sharma-zee-media-tv-sting-former-cricketer-resigns-as-bcci-chief-selector-562930">Chetan Sharma Zee Media TV sting: Former cricketer resigns as BCCI chief selector</a></strong></p>

<p><strong>List of Indian cricketers to have played 100 or more Test matches</strong></p>

<p>Sachin Tendulkar - 200 Tests<br />
Rahul Dravid - 163 Tests<br />
VVS Laxman - 134 matches<br />
Anil Kumble - 132<br />
Kapil Dev - 131 matches<br />
Sunil Gavaskar - 125 Tests<br />
Dilip Vengsarkar - 116 matches<br />
Sourav Ganguly - 113 Tests<br />
Virat Kohli - 105 Tests<br />
Ishant Sharma - 105 matches<br />
Harbhajan Singh - 103 Tests<br />
Virender Sehwag - 103 matches<br />
<strong>Cheteshwar Pujara - 100 Tests*</strong></p>

<p>On his landmark Test, Pujara's family was present at the iconic Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi.&nbsp;Prior to the Test, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar presented the batter his special cap along with an inspiring&nbsp;speech.</p>

<p>Gavaskar said, "Cheteshwar, when we are playing as kids growing up, whether we are playing at home or down on the streets or in the maidans, we are all dreaming of playing for India and eventually when we do play for India, it's an unbelievable feeling. You want to do that over and over again and to do that you need a lot of hardwork, you need plenty of determination, plenty of self-belief to be able to lift yourself from lean periods and then still focus on getting the job done. When you go out to bat, it looks as if you're not just taking your bat with you, you are taking the Indian flag with you and you put your body on the line for India. You have taken the blows, you have got up and you have made the bowlers earn your wicket."</p>

<p>Pujara has so far amassed 7,021 runs, including 19 hundreds and 34 half-centuries, along with a best of 206*. He will be eager to score a daddy hundred in his special Test and take India to a 2-0 scoreline in the ongoing series versus Pat Cummins-led Australia.</p>


On Friday (February 17), India locked horns with Australia in the second Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2023, in New Delhi. As India took the field, after losing the toss and being asked to bowl first, Indian players gave a 'guard of honour' to Cheteshwar Pujara as the No.

On Friday (February 17), India locked horns with Australia in the second Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2023, in New Delhi. As India took the field, after losing the toss and being asked to bowl first, Indian players gave a 'guard of honour' to Cheteshwar Pujara as the No. 3 batter entered the 100-Test club. As the Rohit Sharma-led Indian players came out, they assembled and honoured Pujara for becoming the 13th Indian to play 100, or more, Tests. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) shared a video of the same and captioned it: A guard of honour and a warm welcome for @cheteshwar1 on his 100th Test". Here's the clip: A guard of honour and a warm welcome for @cheteshwar1 on his 1⃣0⃣0⃣th Test 😃👌#TeamIndia | #INDvAUS | @mastercardindia pic.twitter.com/jZoY1mjctu — BCCI (@BCCI) February 17, 2023 × Also Read: Chetan Sharma Zee Media TV sting: Former cricketer resigns as BCCI chief selector List of Indian cricketers to have played 100 or more Test matches Sachin Tendulkar - 200 Tests Rahul Dravid - 163 Tests VVS Laxman - 134 matches Anil Kumble - 132 Kapil Dev - 131 matches Sunil Gavaskar - 125 Tests Dilip Vengsarkar - 116 matches Sourav Ganguly - 113 Tests Virat Kohli - 105 Tests Ishant Sharma - 105 matches Harbhajan Singh - 103 Tests Virender Sehwag - 103 matches Cheteshwar Pujara - 100 Tests* On his landmark Test, Pujara's family was present at the iconic Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi. Prior to the Test, Little Master Sunil Gavaskar presented the batter his special cap along with an inspiring speech. Gavaskar said, "Cheteshwar, when we are playing as kids growing up, whether we are playing at home or down on the streets or in the maidans, we are all dreaming of playing for India and eventually when we do play for India, it's an unbelievable feeling. You want to do that over and over again and to do that you need a lot of hardwork, you need plenty of determination, plenty of self-belief to be able to lift yourself from lean periods and then still focus on getting the job done. When you go out to bat, it looks as if you're not just taking your bat with you, you are taking the Indian flag with you and you put your body on the line for India. You have taken the blows, you have got up and you have made the bowlers earn your wicket." Pujara has so far amassed 7,021 runs, including 19 hundreds and 34 half-centuries, along with a best of 206*. He will be eager to score a daddy hundred in his special Test and take India to a 2-0 scoreline in the ongoing series versus Pat Cummins-led Australia.

Team India gives 'guard of honour' to Cheteshwar Pujara as he joins 100-Test club - WATCH

<p>India will square off with Australia in the second Test of the Border Gavaskar Trophy 2023 edition, in New Delhi, which will get underway on February 17 (Friday). Ahead of the second Test, India's No. 3 Cheteshwar Pujara is on the cusp of attaining a huge feat. Pujara will become the 13th Indian to play 100 Tests when he takes on the field for Team India in the Delhi Test. Thus, he will join an elite list of players featuring Little Master Sunil Gavaskar, Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, etc.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Legendary list of Indian cricketers to have played 100 or more Test matches</strong></p>

<p>Sachin Tendulkar - 200 Tests<br />
Rahul Dravid - 163 Tests<br />
VVS Laxman - 134 matches<br />
Anil Kumble - 132<br />
Kapil Dev - 131 matches<br />
Sunil Gavaskar - 125 Tests<br />
Dilip Vengsarkar - 116 matches<br />
Sourav Ganguly - 113 Tests<br />
Virat Kohli - 105 Tests<br />
Ishant Sharma - 105 matches<br />
Harbhajan Singh - 103 Tests<br />
Virender Sehwag - 103 matches</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-2nd-test-rahul-dravid-shares-epic-response-to-reporters-question-on-starc-shaheen-562630">IND vs AUS, 2nd Test: Rahul Dravid shares epic response to reporter's question on Starc and Shaheen</a></strong></p>

<p>Thus, Pujara will become the 13th Indian to join the elusive list. In 99 Tests, Pujara has amassed&nbsp;7,021 runs, including 19 hundreds and 34 half-centuries, along with a best of 206*. He played a crucial role in India's dominance in the red-ball format under Virat Kohli's captaincy (from 2016 to 2021). He was India's star performer in their maiden Test series win in Australia in the 2018/19 tour.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It goes without saying that Pujara will be eager to make the most of his landmark Test at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi. In the series opener, in Nagpur, he was dismissed for a 14-ball 7. Thus, he will be desperate for a big score in his special Test.&nbsp;</p>


India will square off with Australia in the second Test of the Border Gavaskar Trophy 2023 edition, in New Delhi, which will get underway on February 17 (Friday).

India will square off with Australia in the second Test of the Border Gavaskar Trophy 2023 edition, in New Delhi, which will get underway on February 17 (Friday). Ahead of the second Test, India's No. 3 Cheteshwar Pujara is on the cusp of attaining a huge feat. Pujara will become the 13th Indian to play 100 Tests when he takes on the field for Team India in the Delhi Test. Thus, he will join an elite list of players featuring Little Master Sunil Gavaskar, Master Blaster Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, etc. Legendary list of Indian cricketers to have played 100 or more Test matches Sachin Tendulkar - 200 Tests Rahul Dravid - 163 Tests VVS Laxman - 134 matches Anil Kumble - 132 Kapil Dev - 131 matches Sunil Gavaskar - 125 Tests Dilip Vengsarkar - 116 matches Sourav Ganguly - 113 Tests Virat Kohli - 105 Tests Ishant Sharma - 105 matches Harbhajan Singh - 103 Tests Virender Sehwag - 103 matches Also Read: IND vs AUS, 2nd Test: Rahul Dravid shares epic response to reporter's question on Starc and Shaheen Thus, Pujara will become the 13th Indian to join the elusive list. In 99 Tests, Pujara has amassed 7,021 runs, including 19 hundreds and 34 half-centuries, along with a best of 206*. He played a crucial role in India's dominance in the red-ball format under Virat Kohli's captaincy (from 2016 to 2021). He was India's star performer in their maiden Test series win in Australia in the 2018/19 tour. It goes without saying that Pujara will be eager to make the most of his landmark Test at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi. In the series opener, in Nagpur, he was dismissed for a 14-ball 7. Thus, he will be desperate for a big score in his special Test.

IND vs AUS, Border-Gavaskar Trophy: Pujara on cusp of becoming 13th Indian to enter 100-Test club

<p>On Friday when Cheteshwar Pujara will take the field against Australia in the second Test of the series, he would join an elite list of great cricketers with 100 Tests or more to their name. Pujara, who made his Test debut against Australia in 2008 in Bengaluru, will be completing his 100th Test in Delhi against the same opposition. Known for his patience, concentration, defensive technique and his love for batting, Pujara in his recent interaction with ESPNcricinfo spoke on how yoga helped him with improve his concentration, and how he feels about playing his 100th Test, and what are his motives going forward.</p>

<p>Been the difference-maker in crucial series like the Border-Gavaskar one in the past, Pujara knows what is at stake this time despite India leading the four-match series 1-0. Meanwhile, talking about his landmark 100th Test moment, Pujara said he is happy to make his passion his profession, and that he never dreamt of anything else other than this. Adding that irrespective of levels – be it for club or country, he is always competitive and most importantly he hates losing.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/chetan-sharma-sting-operation-bcci-chief-selector-breaks-silence-on-rohit-sharma-virat-kohli-rift-562021">Chetan Sharma sting operation: BCCI chief selector breaks silence on Rohit Sharma-Virat Kohli rift</a></p>

<p>“It's the love for the game. My passion has become my profession. I never dreamt of doing anything else apart from playing cricket. I don't need any kind of motivation to do well. And it's not just about international cricket. If you look at my performances in games at whatever level - club, state, county, country - no one can question my commitment. I hate losing,” says Pujara.</p>

<p>Speaking about how yoga has helped him improve his concentration over the years, Pujara said,&nbsp;“Yoga has helped me immensely in the last several years, and I've been doing it regularly. That has also helped me improve my concentration. For me, when I'm batting out there in the middle, I try and keep my mind blank, I try and just focus on what I have to do. And to do that you need to also forget what the bowler will do, because in cricket you have to be in the present, you have to look at the ball and let your instinct follow,” Pujara added.</p>

<p>There in the team to deliver in the toughest of conditions, like how he had done in the past, Pujara remains focused on putting his best foot forward in his&nbsp;100th Test in Delhi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Yes, it will be my 100th Test match, but you still have a job to do for the team and you focus on that a bit more. It is similar to batting: when you reach the hundred, you start again. Sometimes you want to score a double-hundred. Here it is not like that - you can't reach 200 Test matches. But you move on to the next target,” said Pujara.</p>

<p>The second Test begins in Delhi from February 17th.</p>


On Friday when Cheteshwar Pujara will take the field against Australia in the second Test of the series, he would join an elite list of great cricketers with 100 Tests or more to their name.

On Friday when Cheteshwar Pujara will take the field against Australia in the second Test of the series, he would join an elite list of great cricketers with 100 Tests or more to their name. Pujara, who made his Test debut against Australia in 2008 in Bengaluru, will be completing his 100th Test in Delhi against the same opposition. Known for his patience, concentration, defensive technique and his love for batting, Pujara in his recent interaction with ESPNcricinfo spoke on how yoga helped him with improve his concentration, and how he feels about playing his 100th Test, and what are his motives going forward. Been the difference-maker in crucial series like the Border-Gavaskar one in the past, Pujara knows what is at stake this time despite India leading the four-match series 1-0. Meanwhile, talking about his landmark 100th Test moment, Pujara said he is happy to make his passion his profession, and that he never dreamt of anything else other than this. Adding that irrespective of levels – be it for club or country, he is always competitive and most importantly he hates losing. ALSO READ: Chetan Sharma sting operation: BCCI chief selector breaks silence on Rohit Sharma-Virat Kohli rift “It's the love for the game. My passion has become my profession. I never dreamt of doing anything else apart from playing cricket. I don't need any kind of motivation to do well. And it's not just about international cricket. If you look at my performances in games at whatever level - club, state, county, country - no one can question my commitment. I hate losing,” says Pujara. Speaking about how yoga has helped him improve his concentration over the years, Pujara said, “Yoga has helped me immensely in the last several years, and I've been doing it regularly. That has also helped me improve my concentration. For me, when I'm batting out there in the middle, I try and keep my mind blank, I try and just focus on what I have to do. And to do that you need to also forget what the bowler will do, because in cricket you have to be in the present, you have to look at the ball and let your instinct follow,” Pujara added. There in the team to deliver in the toughest of conditions, like how he had done in the past, Pujara remains focused on putting his best foot forward in his 100th Test in Delhi. “Yes, it will be my 100th Test match, but you still have a job to do for the team and you focus on that a bit more. It is similar to batting: when you reach the hundred, you start again. Sometimes you want to score a double-hundred. Here it is not like that - you can't reach 200 Test matches. But you move on to the next target,” said Pujara. The second Test begins in Delhi from February 17th.

IND vs AUS: 'Yoga helped me improve my concentration': Cheteshwar Pujara ahead of his 100th Test

<p>India will be hosting Australia in the second Test, of the four-match series, which gets underway on February 17 (Friday). Cheteshwar Pujara, India's No. 3 batter, will be playing his 100th Test and become only the 12th Indian to enter the 100-Test club. He will become the second&nbsp;active Indian player to achieve the feat after Kohli (105 Tests).</p>

<p>Ahead of the second Test, in the national capital, R Ashwin lauded Pujara. He, however, pointed out --&nbsp;in his column for ESPNCricinfo -- that Pujara&nbsp;and even Murali Vijay, who recently retired from international cricket,&nbsp;are not celebrated enough.</p>

<p>Ashwin said, "M Vijay, according to me the greatest opener for India outside of Sunil Gavaskar and Virender Sehwag, and Puji are quite similar in that they haven't been celebrated enough. They also had some of the most hilarious arguments. They used to do the most difficult job in Test cricket - play out the new ball in testing conditions, as we tend to need to do whenever we go abroad - so it is par for the course to have a few eccentricities emerge from that kind of partnership."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-want-to-quit-cricket-ex-india-bowling-coach-recalls-shamis-words-reveals-how-shastri-motivated-him-561862">I want to quit cricket: Ex-India bowling coach recalls Shami's words, reveals how Shastri motivated him</a></strong></p>

<p>Further, the wily off-spinner Ashwin hailed Pujara's stubbornness, which has broken down the best of the attacks in the recent past. In this regard, he said, "Pat Cummins bowls good ball after good ball, changing the angles, trying a bouncer, trying a sucker ball, but all he gets from Puji is the leave or the dead defence. Actually I don't recall thinking Puji had a great defence when I first saw him, but his stubbornness is such that he has broken down the best of the attacks with his defence."</p>

<p>"Most batters add to their game when they are successful or cut out some elements when they are failing, but Puji keeps trusting his method. You can't convince him to change. I used to use a Tamil nickname for him with Shankar Basu, our previous trainer: Mirugam, the beast. Just like a beast focuses single-mindedly on its prey, Puji focuses on batting," he added.</p>

<p>Pujara has had a glittering career in the red-ball format. In 99 Tests, he has 7,021 runs at an average of 44.15 with 19 tons and 34 half-centuries. He will aim for a memorable outing on his 100th Test and take India to a 2-0 scoreline with another impressive win in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.</p>


India will be hosting Australia in the second Test, of the four-match series, which gets underway on February 17 (Friday). Cheteshwar Pujara, India's No. 3 batter, will be playing his 100th Test and become only the 12th Indian to enter the 100-Test club.

India will be hosting Australia in the second Test, of the four-match series, which gets underway on February 17 (Friday). Cheteshwar Pujara, India's No. 3 batter, will be playing his 100th Test and become only the 12th Indian to enter the 100-Test club. He will become the second active Indian player to achieve the feat after Kohli (105 Tests). Ahead of the second Test, in the national capital, R Ashwin lauded Pujara. He, however, pointed out -- in his column for ESPNCricinfo -- that Pujara and even Murali Vijay, who recently retired from international cricket, are not celebrated enough. Ashwin said, "M Vijay, according to me the greatest opener for India outside of Sunil Gavaskar and Virender Sehwag, and Puji are quite similar in that they haven't been celebrated enough. They also had some of the most hilarious arguments. They used to do the most difficult job in Test cricket - play out the new ball in testing conditions, as we tend to need to do whenever we go abroad - so it is par for the course to have a few eccentricities emerge from that kind of partnership." Also Read: I want to quit cricket: Ex-India bowling coach recalls Shami's words, reveals how Shastri motivated him Further, the wily off-spinner Ashwin hailed Pujara's stubbornness, which has broken down the best of the attacks in the recent past. In this regard, he said, "Pat Cummins bowls good ball after good ball, changing the angles, trying a bouncer, trying a sucker ball, but all he gets from Puji is the leave or the dead defence. Actually I don't recall thinking Puji had a great defence when I first saw him, but his stubbornness is such that he has broken down the best of the attacks with his defence." "Most batters add to their game when they are successful or cut out some elements when they are failing, but Puji keeps trusting his method. You can't convince him to change. I used to use a Tamil nickname for him with Shankar Basu, our previous trainer: Mirugam, the beast. Just like a beast focuses single-mindedly on its prey, Puji focuses on batting," he added. Pujara has had a glittering career in the red-ball format. In 99 Tests, he has 7,021 runs at an average of 44.15 with 19 tons and 34 half-centuries. He will aim for a memorable outing on his 100th Test and take India to a 2-0 scoreline with another impressive win in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

IND vs AUS: R Ashwin names India's star batters who are 'not celebrated enough'

<p>India’s mainstay in Tests, Cheteshwar Pujara loves batting, especially against the Australians. Having found success against the Aussies on his previous two tours, the veteran of 98 Tests is all set to take on the new challenge ahead of the Border-Gavaskar series that starts on February 9th in Nagpur. In an exclusive chat with the Times of India (TOI), the right-handed Pujara opened about facing the Australian bowlers, how he is preparing for the upcoming series and much more.</p>

<p>The Aussies are known to be throwing verbal volleys in addition to playing very competitively when it comes to facing&nbsp;India. While the previous three meetings have resulted in India taking the upper hand, the Australians are expected to come all guns blazing this time.</p>

<p>Carrying enough experience on his back, Pujara is ready to take on the Aussie challenge at home after nearly six years. Calling them a competitive and a fighting unit, Pujara said he enjoys the cricketing battles with&nbsp;the Aussies.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-aus-josh-hazlewood-out-of-nagpur-test-due-to-injury-scott-boland-likely-to-replace-him-in-xi-558922">IND vs AUS: Josh Hazlewood out of Nagpur Test due to injury, Scott Boland likely to replace him in XI</a></p>

<p>“They’re a competitive side. They throw a challenge at you, and I’m someone who likes to have that (kind of a) battle. It’s not just the verbal battle that I’m talking about, but the cricketing battle. There’s been a lot of talk about the Aussies doing a lot of chat on the field, but the important part that I look up for as a cricketer is a cricketing challenge. They are always a fighting team,” Pujara told TOI.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, during first of the two previous series Down Under in 2018/19, Pujara played some mammoth knocks that saw India winning the Test series in Australia for the first time. When asked about the tour in particular, where he scored 521 runs in four Tests at an average of above 70 – that included three hundreds too, Pujara said off all the series he’s played in, that one was on the top.</p>

<p>"I’ve enjoyed a few good series, but that was the best series of my cricketing career. The way I was batting, concentrating…there was a lot of physical and mental stress during that series. Every game was a challenge,” the right-handed batter added.</p>

<p>Now, as the 2023 Border-Gavaskar is just around the corner, Pujara revealed how he is preparing for the fresh challenge.</p>

<p>“I’ve played a couple of Ranji Trophy games as a part of the preparation for the series against Australia. Apart from that, I’ve been practicing back home at Rajkot. I can’t disclose particular things, but there are things which I’m working on a few points which will help me during this series,” Pujara said.</p>

<p>The four-match Border-Gavaskar series begins on February 9th in Nagpur while Delhi, Dharamsala and Ahmedabad will host the remaining matches.</p>


India’s mainstay in Tests, Cheteshwar Pujara loves batting, especially against the Australians. Having found success against the Aussies on his previous two tours, the veteran of 98 Tests is all set to take on the new challenge ahead of the Border-Gavaskar series that starts on February 9th in Nagpur.

India’s mainstay in Tests, Cheteshwar Pujara loves batting, especially against the Australians. Having found success against the Aussies on his previous two tours, the veteran of 98 Tests is all set to take on the new challenge ahead of the Border-Gavaskar series that starts on February 9th in Nagpur. In an exclusive chat with the Times of India (TOI), the right-handed Pujara opened about facing the Australian bowlers, how he is preparing for the upcoming series and much more. The Aussies are known to be throwing verbal volleys in addition to playing very competitively when it comes to facing India. While the previous three meetings have resulted in India taking the upper hand, the Australians are expected to come all guns blazing this time. Carrying enough experience on his back, Pujara is ready to take on the Aussie challenge at home after nearly six years. Calling them a competitive and a fighting unit, Pujara said he enjoys the cricketing battles with the Aussies. ALSO READ: IND vs AUS: Josh Hazlewood out of Nagpur Test due to injury, Scott Boland likely to replace him in XI “They’re a competitive side. They throw a challenge at you, and I’m someone who likes to have that (kind of a) battle. It’s not just the verbal battle that I’m talking about, but the cricketing battle. There’s been a lot of talk about the Aussies doing a lot of chat on the field, but the important part that I look up for as a cricketer is a cricketing challenge. They are always a fighting team,” Pujara told TOI. Meanwhile, during first of the two previous series Down Under in 2018/19, Pujara played some mammoth knocks that saw India winning the Test series in Australia for the first time. When asked about the tour in particular, where he scored 521 runs in four Tests at an average of above 70 – that included three hundreds too, Pujara said off all the series he’s played in, that one was on the top. "I’ve enjoyed a few good series, but that was the best series of my cricketing career. The way I was batting, concentrating…there was a lot of physical and mental stress during that series. Every game was a challenge,” the right-handed batter added. Now, as the 2023 Border-Gavaskar is just around the corner, Pujara revealed how he is preparing for the fresh challenge. “I’ve played a couple of Ranji Trophy games as a part of the preparation for the series against Australia. Apart from that, I’ve been practicing back home at Rajkot. I can’t disclose particular things, but there are things which I’m working on a few points which will help me during this series,” Pujara said. The four-match Border-Gavaskar series begins on February 9th in Nagpur while Delhi, Dharamsala and Ahmedabad will host the remaining matches.

I enjoy my cricketing battles with Australia, says Cheteshwar Pujara ahead of 2023 Border-Gavaskar series

<p>India's No. 3 Cheteshwar Pujara revealed the reason behind&nbsp;team management's plan to promote Axar Patel ahead of Virat Kohli in the batting order during their nervy 145-run chase versus Bangladesh in the just-concluded second and final Test in Dhaka. With India being reduced to 12 for 2 in the final session on Day 3, many expected Kohli to walk out at his usual batting slot; i.e. No. 4.</p>

<p>Nonetheless, the Rahul Dravid-led team management surprised one and all and sent out Axar. Sunil Gavaskar, the former Indian opener-turned-commentator, wasn't impressed with the move and told on Sony Sports, "It didn't send a good message to Kohli. He is the best batsman in the world. Unless Kohli himself asked for it, then it's a different matter. We don't know what happened in the changing room. But it's hard to understand. Axar has played well, of course."</p>

<p>Jadeja,&nbsp;part of the Hindi panel, opined, "He is the world's best player. 15 overs were left. Saba Karim said it could have been because of the left-right combination, which is an obvious thought, but then I feel - did Rishabh Pant take a sleeping pill? I will also say that it is easy for us to say this from here; we don't know if someone was not feeling well."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ban-vs-ind-2022-he-is-doing-great-job-for-the-teamcaptain-kl-rahul-hails-star-performer-after-series-win-546500">BAN vs IND 2022: 'He is doing great job for the team...'captain KL Rahul hails star performer after series win</a></strong></p>

<p>Pujara, who won&nbsp;the Player-of-the-Series award, opened up on the move after the series triumph. Talking to the broadcasters, he gave an insight behind Axar's promotion and said, "It was a very good move because among their three strike bowlers, two were left-arm spinners. Axar is a left-hander, so he was sent to tackle them and to have a batter who can bat sensibly in the initial period against the Kookaburra ball. It was a crucial move for us. That was an important phase of the game where we didn't want to lose too many wickets in the evening, and he could have batted cautiously. So I was not surprised. When you are chasing a 145-run total, every run is important, and the way he batted, his innings was very valuable for us."</p>

<p>The left-handed Axar played a cautious 69-ball 34 whereas Kohli departed for 1 during India's three-wicket win over the Bangla Tigers. Shreyas Iyer's 29 not out and R Ashwin's 62-ball 42* held their nerves and took India home after they were reeling at 74-7 in the morning session of Day 4.</p>


India's No. 3 Cheteshwar Pujara revealed the reason behind team management's plan to promote Axar Patel ahead of Virat Kohli in the batting order during their nervy 145-run chase versus Bangladesh in the just-concluded second and final Test in Dhaka.

India's No. 3 Cheteshwar Pujara revealed the reason behind team management's plan to promote Axar Patel ahead of Virat Kohli in the batting order during their nervy 145-run chase versus Bangladesh in the just-concluded second and final Test in Dhaka. With India being reduced to 12 for 2 in the final session on Day 3, many expected Kohli to walk out at his usual batting slot; i.e. No. 4. Nonetheless, the Rahul Dravid-led team management surprised one and all and sent out Axar. Sunil Gavaskar, the former Indian opener-turned-commentator, wasn't impressed with the move and told on Sony Sports, "It didn't send a good message to Kohli. He is the best batsman in the world. Unless Kohli himself asked for it, then it's a different matter. We don't know what happened in the changing room. But it's hard to understand. Axar has played well, of course." Jadeja, part of the Hindi panel, opined, "He is the world's best player. 15 overs were left. Saba Karim said it could have been because of the left-right combination, which is an obvious thought, but then I feel - did Rishabh Pant take a sleeping pill? I will also say that it is easy for us to say this from here; we don't know if someone was not feeling well." Also read: BAN vs IND 2022: 'He is doing great job for the team...'captain KL Rahul hails star performer after series win Pujara, who won the Player-of-the-Series award, opened up on the move after the series triumph. Talking to the broadcasters, he gave an insight behind Axar's promotion and said, "It was a very good move because among their three strike bowlers, two were left-arm spinners. Axar is a left-hander, so he was sent to tackle them and to have a batter who can bat sensibly in the initial period against the Kookaburra ball. It was a crucial move for us. That was an important phase of the game where we didn't want to lose too many wickets in the evening, and he could have batted cautiously. So I was not surprised. When you are chasing a 145-run total, every run is important, and the way he batted, his innings was very valuable for us." The left-handed Axar played a cautious 69-ball 34 whereas Kohli departed for 1 during India's three-wicket win over the Bangla Tigers. Shreyas Iyer's 29 not out and R Ashwin's 62-ball 42* held their nerves and took India home after they were reeling at 74-7 in the morning session of Day 4.

BAN vs IND: 'He was sent to...' - Pujara on why Axar Patel was promoted ahead of Virat Kohli in 2nd Test

<p>India&nbsp;batter Cheteshwar Pujara was named the Player of the Series during Bangladesh Tests for&nbsp;his superb performance. He scored 222 runs across four innings and also ended his century-drought in the first Test in Chattogram when he scored an unbeaten 102 off 132 balls in the second innings, which is fairly quick given Pujara’s overall strike-rate of 44.44 in Tests.</p>

<p>In the first match where most of the batters failed to convert their starts in big scores, Pujara kept the scoreboard ticking in both innings -&nbsp;hitting 90 and 102. His array of shots was something that caught everyone’s eye.</p>

<p>Upon receiving his award, Pujara was seen talking on BCCI’s official handle with Ravi Ashwin where he credited playing white-ball cricket for Sussex and Saurashtra as the reason for him returning to form.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-australia-to-rename-mens-test-player-of-the-year-award-in-honour-of-late-shane-warne-546711">Cricket Australia to rename Men's Test Player of the Year award in honour of late Shane Warne</a></p>

<p>"I was pretty happy with the way things went, particularly in the second innings (of the first Test) because that was the ideal situation for me to showcase the shots which I have been practicing. A lot of credit has to go to the amount of white-ball cricket I played for Sussex and Saurashtra," Pujara said.</p>

<p>Pujara added those stints not only gave him confidence but it was during then only&nbsp;that he was able to introduce new shots to his armoury as well.</p>

<p>"It helped me gain confidence, I was playing those shots before that as well, but in Tests you always kind of hesitate, you always want to put a price on your wicket, you don't want to take the risk when you can score runs down the ground," he added.</p>

<p>Pujara, however, wasn’t able to replicate his form in the following Test in Dhaka where he could just manage 30 runs across both innings (24 and 6).</p>

<p>India’s next Test assignment is a four-match Test series against Australia at home early next year, which is also part of the WTC cycle. For India to qualify for the finals, they need to beat the mighty Aussies by a considerable margin, for which Cheteshwar Pujara’s form will play a keen role.</p>


India batter Cheteshwar Pujara was named the Player of the Series during Bangladesh Tests for his superb performance. He scored 222 runs across four innings and also ended his century-drought in the first Test in Chattogram when he scored an unbeaten 102 off 132 balls in the second innings, which is fairly quick given Pujara’s overall strike-rate of 44.

India batter Cheteshwar Pujara was named the Player of the Series during Bangladesh Tests for his superb performance. He scored 222 runs across four innings and also ended his century-drought in the first Test in Chattogram when he scored an unbeaten 102 off 132 balls in the second innings, which is fairly quick given Pujara’s overall strike-rate of 44.44 in Tests. In the first match where most of the batters failed to convert their starts in big scores, Pujara kept the scoreboard ticking in both innings - hitting 90 and 102. His array of shots was something that caught everyone’s eye. Upon receiving his award, Pujara was seen talking on BCCI’s official handle with Ravi Ashwin where he credited playing white-ball cricket for Sussex and Saurashtra as the reason for him returning to form. ALSO READ: Cricket Australia to rename Men's Test Player of the Year award in honour of late Shane Warne "I was pretty happy with the way things went, particularly in the second innings (of the first Test) because that was the ideal situation for me to showcase the shots which I have been practicing. A lot of credit has to go to the amount of white-ball cricket I played for Sussex and Saurashtra," Pujara said. Pujara added those stints not only gave him confidence but it was during then only that he was able to introduce new shots to his armoury as well. "It helped me gain confidence, I was playing those shots before that as well, but in Tests you always kind of hesitate, you always want to put a price on your wicket, you don't want to take the risk when you can score runs down the ground," he added. Pujara, however, wasn’t able to replicate his form in the following Test in Dhaka where he could just manage 30 runs across both innings (24 and 6). India’s next Test assignment is a four-match Test series against Australia at home early next year, which is also part of the WTC cycle. For India to qualify for the finals, they need to beat the mighty Aussies by a considerable margin, for which Cheteshwar Pujara’s form will play a keen role.

Cheteshwar Pujara credits playing white-ball cricket for Sussex, Saurashtra for super show against Bangladesh

<p>India wrapped up Bangladesh's second innings on 324 inside the first session on&nbsp;day 4 to win the Chattogram Test by 188 runs and take a 1-0 lead in the 2-match series. Spinners Axar Patel and Kuldeep Yadav rescued India after Bangladesh started off well in their chase of 493 on the previous day.</p>

<p>While Kuldeep finished the match with 8 wickets to his name, including a record-breaking five-for in the first innings, Axar picked up 4 wickets in the second innings to hand India a much-needed win.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-women-v-australia-women-4th-t20i-india-lose-by-7-runs-australia-take-unassailable-3-1-lead-544105">India women v Australia women: 4th T20I: India lose by 7 runs, Australia take unassailable 3-1 lead</a></p>

<p>Batting first, India scored 404 with three of its players completing fifties including Cheteshwar Pujara, Sheryas Iyer and bowling all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin. Making his return to the Test side after nearly 22 months, Kuldeep also contributed with the bat with a crucial 40.</p>

<p>While bowling, he spun the web around the Bangladeshi batsmen, picking up his maiden five-wicket haul against them&nbsp;in Tests. India, after dismissing Bangladesh on a mere 150 in their first innings decided to&nbsp;bat again.</p>

<p>This time, the young opener Shubman Gill slammed his first Test hundred&nbsp;with Pujara also ending his century drought in Tests with a stunning 102* off 130. India declared on 258-2 and gave the hosts a monumental target of 493 to chase.</p>

<p>In the fourth innings, debutant&nbsp;Zakir Hasan scored his maiden Test hundred while his fellow opener Najmul Hossain Shanto also played a handy role with an important 67. It was only about time before wickets started to fall and despite little resistance from skipper Shakib Al Hasan who hit an impressive 84, Bangladesh fell short of the target by 188 runs.</p>

<p>The second match of the series will begin on 22nd December in Dhaka.</p>


India wrapped up Bangladesh's second innings on 324 inside the first session on day 4 to win the Chattogram Test by 188 runs and take a 1-0 lead in the 2-match series.

India wrapped up Bangladesh's second innings on 324 inside the first session on day 4 to win the Chattogram Test by 188 runs and take a 1-0 lead in the 2-match series. Spinners Axar Patel and Kuldeep Yadav rescued India after Bangladesh started off well in their chase of 493 on the previous day. While Kuldeep finished the match with 8 wickets to his name, including a record-breaking five-for in the first innings, Axar picked up 4 wickets in the second innings to hand India a much-needed win. ALSO READ: India women v Australia women: 4th T20I: India lose by 7 runs, Australia take unassailable 3-1 lead Batting first, India scored 404 with three of its players completing fifties including Cheteshwar Pujara, Sheryas Iyer and bowling all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin. Making his return to the Test side after nearly 22 months, Kuldeep also contributed with the bat with a crucial 40. While bowling, he spun the web around the Bangladeshi batsmen, picking up his maiden five-wicket haul against them in Tests. India, after dismissing Bangladesh on a mere 150 in their first innings decided to bat again. This time, the young opener Shubman Gill slammed his first Test hundred with Pujara also ending his century drought in Tests with a stunning 102* off 130. India declared on 258-2 and gave the hosts a monumental target of 493 to chase. In the fourth innings, debutant Zakir Hasan scored his maiden Test hundred while his fellow opener Najmul Hossain Shanto also played a handy role with an important 67. It was only about time before wickets started to fall and despite little resistance from skipper Shakib Al Hasan who hit an impressive 84, Bangladesh fell short of the target by 188 runs. The second match of the series will begin on 22nd December in Dhaka.

BAN vs IND 2022, 1st Test: Kuldeep Yadav, Shubman Gill shine in India's 188-run win over Bangladesh

<p>Cheteshwar Pujara has been an integral part of India's Test line-up ever since he made his debut. While Pujara was initially labelled as a home bully, he has played some memorable knocks in tough overseas conditions for Team India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Pujara's Southampton ton during the 2018 England tour, 521-run tally in the 2018/19 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia, 153 in Johannesburg Test in 2013 and many more such knocks have made him an indispensable part of the red-ball squad. Though he was dropped for the Sri Lanka home series early this year, his zeal to bounce back saw him return for the one-off Test versus England in&nbsp;July, in Edgbaston, Birmingham, after a splendid County Championship for Sussex. While he has scored over 600 runs in the ongoing Royal London One-Day Cup for Sussex, Pujara took some time out to have a Q/A session with his fans on Twitter on Wednesday (August 24).</p>

<p>During the interaction, Pujara replied to a cricket-based website when asked about his favourite overseas triumph. The right-hander chose the famous Gabba Test win in this regard.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<p dir="ltr" lang="ht">Gabba 2021 <a href="https://t.co/2lJDhSrpZQ">https://t.co/2lJDhSrpZQ</a></p>
— Cheteshwar Pujara (@cheteshwar1) <a href="https://twitter.com/cheteshwar1/status/1562425886569549827?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-virat-kohli-babar-azam-exchange-greetings-before-india-pakistan-showdown-at-asia-cup-509897"><strong>WATCH: Virat Kohli, Babar Azam exchange greetings before India-Pakistan showdown at Asia Cup</strong></a></p>

<p>It is to be noted that Pujara has been part of several memorable Test wins for India, especially under&nbsp;Virat Kohli's captaincy era. He was part of the Lord's Test wins in 2014 and 2021, J'burg victory in 2018, 31-run triumph over Australia in the Adelaide Test in 2018 followed by the MCG Test win in the same tour, The Oval victory versus hosts England last year. However, the Gabba Test win truly remains special which came versus the mighty Aussies in the 2021/22 Border-Gavaskar Trophy.</p>

<p>Talking about the Gabba Test, a second-stringed Ajinkya Rahane-led India came into the four-match Test series finale versus Tim Paine &amp; Co. with the scoreline reading 1-1. After conceding a vital 33-run lead to the home side, India chased down a competitive 328 on the final day riding on Shubman Gill's classy 91, Pujara's gutsy 56 and Rishabh Pant's 89 not out to clinch the series 2-1.</p>


Cheteshwar Pujara has been an integral part of India's Test line-up ever since he made his debut. While Pujara was initially labelled as a home bully, he has played some memorable knocks in tough overseas conditions for Team India.

Cheteshwar Pujara has been an integral part of India's Test line-up ever since he made his debut. While Pujara was initially labelled as a home bully, he has played some memorable knocks in tough overseas conditions for Team India. Pujara's Southampton ton during the 2018 England tour, 521-run tally in the 2018/19 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia, 153 in Johannesburg Test in 2013 and many more such knocks have made him an indispensable part of the red-ball squad. Though he was dropped for the Sri Lanka home series early this year, his zeal to bounce back saw him return for the one-off Test versus England in July, in Edgbaston, Birmingham, after a splendid County Championship for Sussex. While he has scored over 600 runs in the ongoing Royal London One-Day Cup for Sussex, Pujara took some time out to have a Q/A session with his fans on Twitter on Wednesday (August 24). During the interaction, Pujara replied to a cricket-based website when asked about his favourite overseas triumph. The right-hander chose the famous Gabba Test win in this regard. Gabba 2021 https://t.co/2lJDhSrpZQ — Cheteshwar Pujara (@cheteshwar1) August 24, 2022 × ALSO READ | WATCH: Virat Kohli, Babar Azam exchange greetings before India-Pakistan showdown at Asia Cup It is to be noted that Pujara has been part of several memorable Test wins for India, especially under Virat Kohli's captaincy era. He was part of the Lord's Test wins in 2014 and 2021, J'burg victory in 2018, 31-run triumph over Australia in the Adelaide Test in 2018 followed by the MCG Test win in the same tour, The Oval victory versus hosts England last year. However, the Gabba Test win truly remains special which came versus the mighty Aussies in the 2021/22 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Talking about the Gabba Test, a second-stringed Ajinkya Rahane-led India came into the four-match Test series finale versus Tim Paine & Co. with the scoreline reading 1-1. After conceding a vital 33-run lead to the home side, India chased down a competitive 328 on the final day riding on Shubman Gill's classy 91, Pujara's gutsy 56 and Rishabh Pant's 89 not out to clinch the series 2-1.

Gabba 2021, Lord's 2014 or J'burg 2018? India's Cheteshwar Pujara picks his favourite overseas Test triumph

<p>Cheteshwar Pujara is on a run-scoring spree for Sussex. After a splendid run in the&nbsp;County Championship Division Two &nbsp;-- ending&nbsp;with&nbsp;a&nbsp;tally of 1094 runs in 13 innings at&nbsp;109.40 including three double tons&nbsp;among&nbsp;five centuries -- India's Test specialist has carried his unbelievable form in the Royal London&nbsp;One-Day Cup. As a result,&nbsp;the right-hander scored his&nbsp;third century in five games for Sussex.</p>

<p>With this, Pujara has surpassed India's former captain Virat Kohli and Pakistan's batting sensation and all-format skipper Babar Azam in an elusive list to&nbsp;stand second in world cricket. Riding on a 75-ball century before he ended at 132 off 90 deliveries, Pujara combined with opener&nbsp;Tom Alsop's unbeaten 189 to help Sussex post a mammoth 400/4 versus&nbsp;Middlesex&nbsp;in&nbsp;Group A tie, in Hove.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Courtesy of his impressive knock, Pujara has surpassed both Kohli and Babar to achieve the second-highest batting average in List A cricket consisting of a&nbsp;minimum of 100 innings. The right-hander's current average of 57.48 in 109 innings is only second to Australia's former finisher Michael Bevan, who averaged 57.86 in 153 innings. Meanwhile, Babar comes next&nbsp;comprising an average of 56.56 in 153 innings followed by Kohli. The Indian star batter follows suit with an average of&nbsp;56.60 in 286 innings.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-vs-babar-azam-wasim-akram-joins-best-batsman-debate-ahead-of-india-pakistan-asia-cup-clash-509517"><strong>Virat Kohli vs Babar Azam: Wasim Akram joins 'best batsman' debate ahead of India-Pakistan Asia Cup clash</strong></a></p>

<p>In addition, Pujara's third ton of the tournament helped him&nbsp;become only the second batter in this season to go beyond the 500-run mark. Post his 132-run knock, which helped Sussex beat Middlesex by a whopping 157-run margin, his&nbsp;tally now reads a staggering&nbsp;614 runs in eight innings. His scores are as follows&nbsp;- 9 (16), 63 (71), 14* (7), 107 (79), 174 (131), 49* (68), 66 (66), 132 (90).</p>


Cheteshwar Pujara is on a run-scoring spree for Sussex. After a splendid run in the County Championship Division Two -- ending with a tally of 1094 runs in 13 innings at 109.

Cheteshwar Pujara is on a run-scoring spree for Sussex. After a splendid run in the County Championship Division Two -- ending with a tally of 1094 runs in 13 innings at 109.40 including three double tons among five centuries -- India's Test specialist has carried his unbelievable form in the Royal London One-Day Cup. As a result, the right-hander scored his third century in five games for Sussex. With this, Pujara has surpassed India's former captain Virat Kohli and Pakistan's batting sensation and all-format skipper Babar Azam in an elusive list to stand second in world cricket. Riding on a 75-ball century before he ended at 132 off 90 deliveries, Pujara combined with opener Tom Alsop's unbeaten 189 to help Sussex post a mammoth 400/4 versus Middlesex in Group A tie, in Hove. Courtesy of his impressive knock, Pujara has surpassed both Kohli and Babar to achieve the second-highest batting average in List A cricket consisting of a minimum of 100 innings. The right-hander's current average of 57.48 in 109 innings is only second to Australia's former finisher Michael Bevan, who averaged 57.86 in 153 innings. Meanwhile, Babar comes next comprising an average of 56.56 in 153 innings followed by Kohli. The Indian star batter follows suit with an average of 56.60 in 286 innings. ALSO READ | Virat Kohli vs Babar Azam: Wasim Akram joins 'best batsman' debate ahead of India-Pakistan Asia Cup clash In addition, Pujara's third ton of the tournament helped him become only the second batter in this season to go beyond the 500-run mark. Post his 132-run knock, which helped Sussex beat Middlesex by a whopping 157-run margin, his tally now reads a staggering 614 runs in eight innings. His scores are as follows - 9 (16), 63 (71), 14* (7), 107 (79), 174 (131), 49* (68), 66 (66), 132 (90).

Run-machine Pujara surpasses Virat Kohli, Babar Azam in elite list with impressive ton for Sussex

<p>Indian batsman Cheteshwar Pujara, who is currently leading Sussex's charge against Surrey in&nbsp;the ongoing Royal London One-Day Cup,&nbsp;put on an absolute masterclass as he added yet another century to his name on Sunday (August 14). He managed to notch up 174 runs in 134 balls, smashing 20 fours and five sixes.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cheteshwar-pujara-reveals-he-felt-pukish-after-smashing-22-runs-off-a-single-over-for-sussex-506732">Cheteshwar Pujara reveals he felt 'pukish' after smashing 22 runs off a single over for Sussex</a></p>

<p>This impressive haul of runs marked his career-best List A score. With Pujara at the helm, replacing the regular skipper Tom Haines, Sussex managed to rack up&nbsp;378/6 in 50 overs.</p>

<p>His latest century comes hot on the heels of his&nbsp;79-ball 107, which he scored against&nbsp;Warwickshire on Friday. His uber-impressive knock&nbsp;on Friday also included a 22-run over, which saw him bag three fours and a six against&nbsp;Liam Norwell. However, it was not enough to earn Sussex the win.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Back to back centuries for <a href="https://twitter.com/cheteshwar1?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@cheteshwar1</a>. 💯 🤩 <a href="https://t.co/9F7bMlvvkF">pic.twitter.com/9F7bMlvvkF</a></p>
— Sussex Cricket (@SussexCCC) <a href="https://twitter.com/SussexCCC/status/1558795831771336706?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 14, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>He is currently coming off an extremely successful run in the&nbsp;County Championship Division Two, where he has managed to set himself apart as the&nbsp;second-highest run-scorer, bagging&nbsp;1094 runs in 13 innings at an average of 109.40. Pujara recorded five scores of 100+ in the season, which also included&nbsp;three double-hundreds.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-beast-mode-on-cheteshwar-pujara-smacks-22-runs-in-an-over-during-73-ball-ton-for-sussex-506426">Watch: Beast mode on! Cheteshwar Pujara smacks 22 runs in an over during 73-ball ton for Sussex</a></p>

<p>His most recent double hundred (231) came against Middlesex in July. The game marked his debut as the skipper in the&nbsp;County Championship Division Two.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After having enjoyed a long run in the middle order in Indian Test cricket, Pujara was dropped from the squad ahead of the home series against Sri Lanka earlier this year. However, he made his comeback in the Test squad for India's one-off Test against England and looks set to keep his spot in the team.</p>


Indian batsman Cheteshwar Pujara, who is currently leading Sussex's charge against Surrey in the ongoing Royal London One-Day Cup, put on an absolute masterclass as he added yet another century to his name on Sunday (August 14).

Indian batsman Cheteshwar Pujara, who is currently leading Sussex's charge against Surrey in the ongoing Royal London One-Day Cup, put on an absolute masterclass as he added yet another century to his name on Sunday (August 14). He managed to notch up 174 runs in 134 balls, smashing 20 fours and five sixes. ALSO READ: Cheteshwar Pujara reveals he felt 'pukish' after smashing 22 runs off a single over for Sussex This impressive haul of runs marked his career-best List A score. With Pujara at the helm, replacing the regular skipper Tom Haines, Sussex managed to rack up 378/6 in 50 overs. His latest century comes hot on the heels of his 79-ball 107, which he scored against Warwickshire on Friday. His uber-impressive knock on Friday also included a 22-run over, which saw him bag three fours and a six against Liam Norwell. However, it was not enough to earn Sussex the win. Back to back centuries for @cheteshwar1. 💯 🤩 pic.twitter.com/9F7bMlvvkF — Sussex Cricket (@SussexCCC) August 14, 2022 × He is currently coming off an extremely successful run in the County Championship Division Two, where he has managed to set himself apart as the second-highest run-scorer, bagging 1094 runs in 13 innings at an average of 109.40. Pujara recorded five scores of 100+ in the season, which also included three double-hundreds. ALSO READ: Watch: Beast mode on! Cheteshwar Pujara smacks 22 runs in an over during 73-ball ton for Sussex His most recent double hundred (231) came against Middlesex in July. The game marked his debut as the skipper in the County Championship Division Two. After having enjoyed a long run in the middle order in Indian Test cricket, Pujara was dropped from the squad ahead of the home series against Sri Lanka earlier this year. However, he made his comeback in the Test squad for India's one-off Test against England and looks set to keep his spot in the team.

Cheteshwar Pujara slams back-to-back tons for Sussex as he continues red-hot form in Royal ODI Cup

<p>India's&nbsp;Cheteshwar Pujara recently made his way to the headlines after recording a stunning performance, scoring&nbsp;107 runs in 79 balls while playing for Sussex against&nbsp;Warwickshire at the&nbsp;Royal London One-Day Cup 2022 match.&nbsp;Pujara recorded an excellent run, as he scored&nbsp;22 runs in a single over.</p>

<p>However, Pujara's impressive outing on the field was not enough to push Sussex over&nbsp;Warwickshire as they fell short by&nbsp;four runs while chasing&nbsp;a target of 311 runs. Pujara impressed fans by leading Sussex's charge against&nbsp;Warwickshire, scoring&nbsp;seven fours and two sixes.</p>

<p><b>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</b><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/let-the-guy-live-in-peace-zimbabwe-star-backs-virat-kohli-amid-his-woeful-form-for-team-india-506692" hreflang="en">'Let the guy live in peace': Zimbabwe star backs Virat Kohli amid his woeful form for Team India</a></p>

<p>The biggest highlight of his performance against&nbsp;Warwickshire was smashing&nbsp;Liam Norwell for 22 runs in a single over. Although he tried to rally the team to a win at the Royal London One-Day Cup 2022 match, they failed to put in an effective outing against them.</p>

<p>In a recent interaction with the media in the aftermath of the match, Pujara admitted that he was battling physical issues like nausea as he was feeling pukish. He offered fans some insight into how he had to stay hydrated to be able to play at the highest level.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-pakistan-pacer-explains-why-india-are-favourites-against-babar-co-at-asia-cup-2022-506676" hreflang="en">Former Pakistan pacer explains why India are favourites against Babar Azam &amp; Co. at Asia Cup 2022</a></p>

<p>“I was hydrating in between. There was a time when I was feeling a bit pukish. I think it’s the weather. I’m used to playing in hot weather but it’s never enough. I was trying my best,” Pujara said.</p>

<p>Although they failed to overcome the challenge presented by&nbsp;Warwickshire, Pujara admitted that the team put in an excellent effort and deserved all the plaudits they could get from the fan. He also admitted that he would have liked to stay all the way to the end to help the team see the game through.</p>

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India's Cheteshwar Pujara recently made his way to the headlines after recording a stunning performance, scoring 107 runs in 79 balls while playing for Sussex against Warwickshire at the Royal London One-Day Cup 2022 match.

India's Cheteshwar Pujara recently made his way to the headlines after recording a stunning performance, scoring 107 runs in 79 balls while playing for Sussex against Warwickshire at the Royal London One-Day Cup 2022 match. Pujara recorded an excellent run, as he scored 22 runs in a single over. However, Pujara's impressive outing on the field was not enough to push Sussex over Warwickshire as they fell short by four runs while chasing a target of 311 runs. Pujara impressed fans by leading Sussex's charge against Warwickshire, scoring seven fours and two sixes. ALSO READ: 'Let the guy live in peace': Zimbabwe star backs Virat Kohli amid his woeful form for Team India The biggest highlight of his performance against Warwickshire was smashing Liam Norwell for 22 runs in a single over. Although he tried to rally the team to a win at the Royal London One-Day Cup 2022 match, they failed to put in an effective outing against them. In a recent interaction with the media in the aftermath of the match, Pujara admitted that he was battling physical issues like nausea as he was feeling pukish. He offered fans some insight into how he had to stay hydrated to be able to play at the highest level. ALSO READ: Former Pakistan pacer explains why India are favourites against Babar Azam & Co. at Asia Cup 2022 “I was hydrating in between. There was a time when I was feeling a bit pukish. I think it’s the weather. I’m used to playing in hot weather but it’s never enough. I was trying my best,” Pujara said. Although they failed to overcome the challenge presented by Warwickshire, Pujara admitted that the team put in an excellent effort and deserved all the plaudits they could get from the fan. He also admitted that he would have liked to stay all the way to the end to help the team see the game through.

Cheteshwar Pujara reveals he felt 'pukish' after smashing 22 runs off a single over for Sussex

<p>Cheteshwar Pujara is having a memorable run for Sussex. Being on a run-scoring spree for Sussex during the County Championship, India's Test specialist Pujara has now turned on the heat during the ongoing&nbsp;Royal London One-Day Cup.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In Sussex's match against&nbsp;Warwickshire, Pujara turned on his beast mode to smash as many as 22 runs --&nbsp;4, 2, 4, 2, 6, and 4 -- in an over during his side's 311-run chase at Edgbaston, Birmingham on August 12 (Thursday). The right-hander came out to bat at No. 4 and played a captain's knock where he accelerated with his innovative shots when Sussex required 70 off 36&nbsp;balls. Taking on England pacer Liam Norwell in his final over, Pujara displayed his skills and talent by churning out 22&nbsp;runs. <strong>Here's the video of Pujara's onslaught:</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">4 2 4 2 6 4<br />
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TWENTY-TWO off the 47th over from <a href="https://twitter.com/cheteshwar1?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@cheteshwar1</a>. 🔥 <a href="https://t.co/jbBOKpgiTI">pic.twitter.com/jbBOKpgiTI</a></p>
— Sussex Cricket (@SussexCCC) <a href="https://twitter.com/SussexCCC/status/1558137119373131776?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 12, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/when-gautam-gambhir-kamran-akmal-got-involved-in-an-ugly-spat-during-indo-pak-2010-asia-cup-tie-506235"><strong>When Gambhir, Kamran got involved in an ugly spat during 2010 India-Pakistan Asia Cup clash</strong></a></p>

<p>Despite Pujara's sensational shot, Sussex went down to&nbsp;Warwickshire by four runs in the high-scoring contest. Talking about the Test specialist, his knock was filled with 7 fours and 2 sixes at a strike rate of 135.44.&nbsp;Alistair Orr's 81 was the second-highest run-getter whereas, for&nbsp;Warwickshire,&nbsp;Robert Yates' 114 and fifties from&nbsp;captain Will Rhodes and keeper-batter Michael Burgess took them to 310/6. Eventually, Sussex managed 306/7 and are now at the sixth spot with four points from as many games. Warwickshire, on the other hand, occupy&nbsp;the fourth spot with five points from three encounters.</p>


Cheteshwar Pujara is having a memorable run for Sussex. Being on a run-scoring spree for Sussex during the County Championship, India's Test specialist Pujara has now turned on the heat during the ongoing Royal London One-Day Cup.

Cheteshwar Pujara is having a memorable run for Sussex. Being on a run-scoring spree for Sussex during the County Championship, India's Test specialist Pujara has now turned on the heat during the ongoing Royal London One-Day Cup. In Sussex's match against Warwickshire, Pujara turned on his beast mode to smash as many as 22 runs -- 4, 2, 4, 2, 6, and 4 -- in an over during his side's 311-run chase at Edgbaston, Birmingham on August 12 (Thursday). The right-hander came out to bat at No. 4 and played a captain's knock where he accelerated with his innovative shots when Sussex required 70 off 36 balls. Taking on England pacer Liam Norwell in his final over, Pujara displayed his skills and talent by churning out 22 runs. Here's the video of Pujara's onslaught: 4 2 4 2 6 4 TWENTY-TWO off the 47th over from @cheteshwar1. 🔥 pic.twitter.com/jbBOKpgiTI — Sussex Cricket (@SussexCCC) August 12, 2022 × ALSO READ | When Gambhir, Kamran got involved in an ugly spat during 2010 India-Pakistan Asia Cup clash Despite Pujara's sensational shot, Sussex went down to Warwickshire by four runs in the high-scoring contest. Talking about the Test specialist, his knock was filled with 7 fours and 2 sixes at a strike rate of 135.44. Alistair Orr's 81 was the second-highest run-getter whereas, for Warwickshire, Robert Yates' 114 and fifties from captain Will Rhodes and keeper-batter Michael Burgess took them to 310/6. Eventually, Sussex managed 306/7 and are now at the sixth spot with four points from as many games. Warwickshire, on the other hand, occupy the fourth spot with five points from three encounters.

Watch: Beast mode on! Cheteshwar Pujara smacks 22 runs in an over during 73-ball ton for Sussex

<p>Cheteshwar Pujara continues his dream run for Sussex in County Championship. In the County C'ship Division Two game between Sussex and Middlesex, being held at the iconic Lord's Cricket Ground, London, Pujara was at his punishing best as the right-hander slammed his third double ton for his side after the opposition opted to bowl first.</p>

<p>A day after Pujara completed his fifth century of the season, the Test specialist for India converted his hundred into a double century before being the last man to fall for a highly-impressive 403-ball 231, studded with 21 fours and 3 sixes. Riding on Pujara's 231 and&nbsp;Tom Alsop's 135, Sussex compiled a mammoth 523 all-out. After his dismissal, the Indian batter received a thunderous applause by his teammates and spectators at the Lord's balcony and the famous corridor of the iconic stadium. <strong>Here's the video:</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Out onto the balcony to stand and applaud a fantastic innings. 👏<a href="https://twitter.com/cheteshwar1?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@cheteshwar1</a> 💯💯 <a href="https://t.co/2hmvm9wMz4">pic.twitter.com/2hmvm9wMz4</a></p>
— Sussex Cricket (@SussexCCC) <a href="https://twitter.com/SussexCCC/status/1549775319179091969?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 20, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-churns-out-a-whopping-sum-for-shikhar-dhawan-led-indias-flight-to-west-indies-report-499454"><strong>BCCI churns out a whopping sum for Shikhar Dhawan-led India's flight to West Indies: Report</strong></a></p>

<p><strong>Pujara's walk back to the dressing room was also a memorable one for the veteran Test batter:</strong></p>

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<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/not-pandya-pant-or-rahul-former-nz-all-rounder-backs-indias-star-player-as-future-captaincy-candidate-499438"><strong>Not Pandya, Pant or Rahul! Former NZ all-rounder backs India's star player as future captaincy candidate</strong></a></p>

<p>Courtesy of his daddy hundred, Sussex are in the driver's seat with Middlesex losing four wickets for less than 150 runs on board. However, they are 234-4 after end of 77 overs and will like to bring down the deficit with the help of their remaining batters.</p>

<p>Talking about Puajra, the 34-year-old continues to compile runs at the County Championship and is keeping himself in good form ahead of India's upcoming red-ball assignments in the ongoing second cycle of the ICC World Test Championship. Even in Jasprit Bumrah-led India's seven-wicket loss at the hands of England in the one-off Test, in Edgbaston, held early this year, Pujara had returned with a fine half-century in visitors' second essay.</p>


Cheteshwar Pujara continues his dream run for Sussex in County Championship. In the County C'ship Division Two game between Sussex and Middlesex, being held at the iconic Lord's Cricket Ground, London, Pujara was at his punishing best as the right-hander slammed his third double ton for his side after the opposition opted to bowl first.

Cheteshwar Pujara continues his dream run for Sussex in County Championship. In the County C'ship Division Two game between Sussex and Middlesex, being held at the iconic Lord's Cricket Ground, London, Pujara was at his punishing best as the right-hander slammed his third double ton for his side after the opposition opted to bowl first. A day after Pujara completed his fifth century of the season, the Test specialist for India converted his hundred into a double century before being the last man to fall for a highly-impressive 403-ball 231, studded with 21 fours and 3 sixes. Riding on Pujara's 231 and Tom Alsop's 135, Sussex compiled a mammoth 523 all-out. After his dismissal, the Indian batter received a thunderous applause by his teammates and spectators at the Lord's balcony and the famous corridor of the iconic stadium. Here's the video: Out onto the balcony to stand and applaud a fantastic innings. 👏@cheteshwar1 💯💯 pic.twitter.com/2hmvm9wMz4 — Sussex Cricket (@SussexCCC) July 20, 2022 × ALSO READ | BCCI churns out a whopping sum for Shikhar Dhawan-led India's flight to West Indies: Report Pujara's walk back to the dressing room was also a memorable one for the veteran Test batter: View this post on Instagram A post shared by Lord's Cricket Ground (@homeofcricket) × ALSO READ | Not Pandya, Pant or Rahul! Former NZ all-rounder backs India's star player as future captaincy candidate Courtesy of his daddy hundred, Sussex are in the driver's seat with Middlesex losing four wickets for less than 150 runs on board. However, they are 234-4 after end of 77 overs and will like to bring down the deficit with the help of their remaining batters. Talking about Puajra, the 34-year-old continues to compile runs at the County Championship and is keeping himself in good form ahead of India's upcoming red-ball assignments in the ongoing second cycle of the ICC World Test Championship. Even in Jasprit Bumrah-led India's seven-wicket loss at the hands of England in the one-off Test, in Edgbaston, held early this year, Pujara had returned with a fine half-century in visitors' second essay.

Watch: UNMISSABLE! Pujara gets thunderous applause after 3rd double ton for Sussex in County

<p>Cheteshwar Pujara has returned to county cricket and is currently playing for his team Sussex in the English domestic circuit after representing India in the one-off fifth Test against England at Edgbaston earlier this month. Pujara was part of the Indian team which lost the rescheduled Test by 7 runs to draw the series 2-2 against the hosts.</p>

<p>As Pujara made his comeback for Sussex in their clash against Leicestershire, the star batter decided to roll over his arm and bowl some leg-spin for his team. Sussex shared a video on their social media accounts of Pujara bowling against the Leicestershire batters during their innings on Wednesday.</p>

<p>Pujara bowled one over during the game and conceded 8 runs off it without taking a wicket. It was a rare occasion as Pujara refrains from bowling too often in both international and domestic cricket. While he has bowled 41.5 overs in first-class cricket with six wickets to his name, the Indian batter has bowled just one over in Tests for Team India.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">An over of <a href="https://twitter.com/cheteshwar1?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@cheteshwar1</a> bowling. <a href="https://t.co/I4PdyeCxCx">pic.twitter.com/I4PdyeCxCx</a></p>
— Sussex Cricket (@SussexCCC) <a href="https://twitter.com/SussexCCC/status/1547230399574810624?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 13, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-cant-be-dropped-straightaway-ashish-nehra-backs-under-fire-india-batter-amid-form-concerns-497041">Kohli can't be dropped straightaway: Nehra backs under-fire India batter amid form concerns</a></p>

<p>The video of Pujara's bowling in the county game for Sussex has left many Indian cricket fans in awe of the senior batter as they have rarely seen him bowl. Pujara had earlier scored 46 runs with the bat for Sussex during their first innings to help his team post a big total of 588 runs on the board.</p>

<p>Pujara had joined Sussex earlier this year after he went unsold at the Indian Premier League (IPL) auction. He had also been dropped from the Indian Test team and the county stint proved to be a game-changer for the right-hand batter as he managed to bounce back to form and went on to pile on&nbsp;720 runs in just 8 innings for Sussex.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indian-skipper-rohit-sharma-surpasses-kane-williamson-to-achieve-rare-feat-in-1st-odi-against-england-497028">Rohit Sharma surpasses Kane Williamson to achieve rare feat in 1st ODI against England</a></p>

<p>He managed to make his comeback to the Indian Test team on the basis of his performances in county cricket and was part of India's playing XI for the one-off fifth Test against England where he notched up a half-century in the second innings. Pujara will continue to play for Sussex for the upcoming few months as India's next Test assignment is in September this year.</p>

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Cheteshwar Pujara has returned to county cricket and is currently playing for his team Sussex in the English domestic circuit after representing India in the one-off fifth Test against England at Edgbaston earlier this month.

Cheteshwar Pujara has returned to county cricket and is currently playing for his team Sussex in the English domestic circuit after representing India in the one-off fifth Test against England at Edgbaston earlier this month. Pujara was part of the Indian team which lost the rescheduled Test by 7 runs to draw the series 2-2 against the hosts. As Pujara made his comeback for Sussex in their clash against Leicestershire, the star batter decided to roll over his arm and bowl some leg-spin for his team. Sussex shared a video on their social media accounts of Pujara bowling against the Leicestershire batters during their innings on Wednesday. Pujara bowled one over during the game and conceded 8 runs off it without taking a wicket. It was a rare occasion as Pujara refrains from bowling too often in both international and domestic cricket. While he has bowled 41.5 overs in first-class cricket with six wickets to his name, the Indian batter has bowled just one over in Tests for Team India. An over of @cheteshwar1 bowling. pic.twitter.com/I4PdyeCxCx — Sussex Cricket (@SussexCCC) July 13, 2022 × Also Read: Kohli can't be dropped straightaway: Nehra backs under-fire India batter amid form concerns The video of Pujara's bowling in the county game for Sussex has left many Indian cricket fans in awe of the senior batter as they have rarely seen him bowl. Pujara had earlier scored 46 runs with the bat for Sussex during their first innings to help his team post a big total of 588 runs on the board. Pujara had joined Sussex earlier this year after he went unsold at the Indian Premier League (IPL) auction. He had also been dropped from the Indian Test team and the county stint proved to be a game-changer for the right-hand batter as he managed to bounce back to form and went on to pile on 720 runs in just 8 innings for Sussex. Also Read: Rohit Sharma surpasses Kane Williamson to achieve rare feat in 1st ODI against England He managed to make his comeback to the Indian Test team on the basis of his performances in county cricket and was part of India's playing XI for the one-off fifth Test against England where he notched up a half-century in the second innings. Pujara will continue to play for Sussex for the upcoming few months as India's next Test assignment is in September this year.

WATCH: Cheteshwar Pujara turns leg-spinner for Sussex, takes over bowling duties in county cricket

<p>India are currently in a strong position in the ongoing fifth Test against England at Edgbaston in Birmingham after amassing a 257-run lead at stumps on Day 3. India rode on impressive centuries from Ravindra Jadeja and Rishabh Pant to post a big total of 416 runs in their first innings before bundling out the hosts for 284 runs in their first innings to gain a healthy lead.</p>

<p>India have dominated the proceedings so far in the rescheduled fifth Test under stand-in skipper Jasprit Bumrah in the absence of regular captain Rohit Sharma. After playing a sensational cameo of 31 runs with the bat, Bumrah was terrific with the ball during England's first innings and ran through their top-order with a three-wicket haul.</p>

<p>Mohammed Siraj too bowled an impressive spell and picked up a four-wicket haul wreaking havoc on the hosts' lower-middle order. England were skittled out for a below-par 284 on Day 3 before the Indian batters posted 125/3 on the board in their second innings at stumps on Day 3 to extend the lead to 257 runs.</p>

<p>India lost opener Shubman Gill (4) and Hanuma Vihari (11) cheaply in their second innings before Cheteshwar Pujara steadied the ship for the visitors with a brilliant half-century. Speaking about India's domination in the game, Vaughan backed Bumrah &amp; Co. to win the game and clinch the five-match series 3-1.</p>

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<p>"A 257-run lead is a long way now for England to go and chase. India gets another 150 and it's 400, which I think it will be, there is odd bounce, spin will come into play and that might be when Shami gets his reward," Vaughan said on&nbsp;Cricbuzz.</p>

<p>"Give me a Pujara in my Test team any day of the week. As much as you are scared of Pant, Pujara is the kind of glue that every single team needs to frustrate and wear down the bowlers," added the former England captain as he lauded Pujara for his valiant knock in the second innings.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-wont-be-shutting-up-jonny-bairstow-opens-up-on-verbal-duel-with-virat-kohli-in-edgbaston-test-494256">'We won't be shutting up...' - Jonny Bairstow opens up on verbal duel with Virat Kohli in Edgbaston Test</a></p>

<p>India will be hoping to capitalise and extend their lead beyond the 400-run mark on Day 4 of the Test match on Monday (July 04). Vaughan believes India are absolute favourites to win the game and he sees nothing but Bumrah &amp; Co. winning the Edgbaston Test. India are leading the five-match series 2-1 from last year as the fifth and final game had been postponed due to COVID-19.</p>

<p>"I think the four seamers will do some damage inside the first 25 overs. There will certainly be movement there. This is the difference from playing against New Zealand to what they are playing against India. I feel the tactics have not been quite right in the field. A few of the old traits have returned when they are facing real quality. I see nothing but an India win," said Vaughan.</p>


India are currently in a strong position in the ongoing fifth Test against England at Edgbaston in Birmingham after amassing a 257-run lead at stumps on Day 3. India rode on impressive centuries from Ravindra Jadeja and Rishabh Pant to post a big total of 416 runs in their first innings before bundling out the hosts for 284 runs in their first innings to gain a healthy lead.

India are currently in a strong position in the ongoing fifth Test against England at Edgbaston in Birmingham after amassing a 257-run lead at stumps on Day 3. India rode on impressive centuries from Ravindra Jadeja and Rishabh Pant to post a big total of 416 runs in their first innings before bundling out the hosts for 284 runs in their first innings to gain a healthy lead. India have dominated the proceedings so far in the rescheduled fifth Test under stand-in skipper Jasprit Bumrah in the absence of regular captain Rohit Sharma. After playing a sensational cameo of 31 runs with the bat, Bumrah was terrific with the ball during England's first innings and ran through their top-order with a three-wicket haul. Mohammed Siraj too bowled an impressive spell and picked up a four-wicket haul wreaking havoc on the hosts' lower-middle order. England were skittled out for a below-par 284 on Day 3 before the Indian batters posted 125/3 on the board in their second innings at stumps on Day 3 to extend the lead to 257 runs. India lost opener Shubman Gill (4) and Hanuma Vihari (11) cheaply in their second innings before Cheteshwar Pujara steadied the ship for the visitors with a brilliant half-century. Speaking about India's domination in the game, Vaughan backed Bumrah & Co. to win the game and clinch the five-match series 3-1. Also Read: Rohit to undergo cardiovascular test to determine his availability for T20I series opener vs ENG: Report "A 257-run lead is a long way now for England to go and chase. India gets another 150 and it's 400, which I think it will be, there is odd bounce, spin will come into play and that might be when Shami gets his reward," Vaughan said on Cricbuzz. "Give me a Pujara in my Test team any day of the week. As much as you are scared of Pant, Pujara is the kind of glue that every single team needs to frustrate and wear down the bowlers," added the former England captain as he lauded Pujara for his valiant knock in the second innings. Also Read: 'We won't be shutting up...' - Jonny Bairstow opens up on verbal duel with Virat Kohli in Edgbaston Test India will be hoping to capitalise and extend their lead beyond the 400-run mark on Day 4 of the Test match on Monday (July 04). Vaughan believes India are absolute favourites to win the game and he sees nothing but Bumrah & Co. winning the Edgbaston Test. India are leading the five-match series 2-1 from last year as the fifth and final game had been postponed due to COVID-19. "I think the four seamers will do some damage inside the first 25 overs. There will certainly be movement there. This is the difference from playing against New Zealand to what they are playing against India. I feel the tactics have not been quite right in the field. A few of the old traits have returned when they are facing real quality. I see nothing but an India win," said Vaughan.

'I see nothing but an India win': Michael Vaughan backs Jasprit Bumrah & Co. to clinch series against England

<p>Virat Kohli's century-drought remains a talking point in the cricketing fraternity. It isn't an unknown fact that the 33-year-old former skipper's last international hundred came in late 2019, in the pre-Covid era. Since then, the right-hander has crossed the fifty-run mark on several occasions, especially in shorter formats, but hasn't touched the triple-figure mark.</p>

<p>Ahead of the fifth and final Test between India and England -- which is part of the incomplete five-match series held last year in England -- former Indian opener Aakash Chopra opined whether Kohli will be able to break his century jinx during the series decider, which got underway on Friday (July 01) in Edgbaston, Birmingham.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Kohli and Pant together will score more than 120 runs. The big question is will Kohli finally get his 71st hundred in this game? I don't think so. Although he got his first Test hundred in England on this ground, I doubt whether he will get a hundred this time. But he and Pant will still be among the runs," the former India batter said on his YouTube channel.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/eng-vs-ind-5th-test-milestone-alert-virat-kohli-needs-40-runs-to-join-tendulkar-gavaskar-in-elite-club-493488"><strong>ENG vs IND, 5th Test: Milestone alert! Virat Kohli needs 40 runs to join Tendulkar, Gavaskar in elite club</strong></a></p>

<p>"Root and Stokes together will score more than 120 runs in the game. Root scored three hundreds last time and&nbsp;<em>Iss Root ki sabhi line vyast hai</em>&nbsp;(all lines on this Root are busy) as he has been in tremendous form. Stokes has done well as captain but hasn't scored many runs. However I think runs will come from his bat too in this game,"&nbsp;added Chopra.</p>

<p>At present, India are 53 for 2 in 20.1 overs after being asked to bat first in the first session of the opening day before rain, and wet outfield, interrupted proceedings. Jasprit Bumrah is leading India in regular captain Rohit Sharma's absence, who is ruled out due to Covid concerns.</p>


Virat Kohli's century-drought remains a talking point in the cricketing fraternity. It isn't an unknown fact that the 33-year-old former skipper's last international hundred came in late 2019, in the pre-Covid era.

Virat Kohli's century-drought remains a talking point in the cricketing fraternity. It isn't an unknown fact that the 33-year-old former skipper's last international hundred came in late 2019, in the pre-Covid era. Since then, the right-hander has crossed the fifty-run mark on several occasions, especially in shorter formats, but hasn't touched the triple-figure mark. Ahead of the fifth and final Test between India and England -- which is part of the incomplete five-match series held last year in England -- former Indian opener Aakash Chopra opined whether Kohli will be able to break his century jinx during the series decider, which got underway on Friday (July 01) in Edgbaston, Birmingham. "Kohli and Pant together will score more than 120 runs. The big question is will Kohli finally get his 71st hundred in this game? I don't think so. Although he got his first Test hundred in England on this ground, I doubt whether he will get a hundred this time. But he and Pant will still be among the runs," the former India batter said on his YouTube channel. ALSO READ | ENG vs IND, 5th Test: Milestone alert! Virat Kohli needs 40 runs to join Tendulkar, Gavaskar in elite club "Root and Stokes together will score more than 120 runs in the game. Root scored three hundreds last time and Iss Root ki sabhi line vyast hai (all lines on this Root are busy) as he has been in tremendous form. Stokes has done well as captain but hasn't scored many runs. However I think runs will come from his bat too in this game," added Chopra. At present, India are 53 for 2 in 20.1 overs after being asked to bat first in the first session of the opening day before rain, and wet outfield, interrupted proceedings. Jasprit Bumrah is leading India in regular captain Rohit Sharma's absence, who is ruled out due to Covid concerns.

Will Virat Kohli end his century-drought in one-off Test vs England? Former Indian opener gives his verdict

<p>Team India are in a spot of bother ahead of the fifth and final Test versus England, which will get underway on July 01 in Edgbaston, Birmingham. On Sunday (June 26), the regular captain Rohit Sharma tested positive for Covid-19 and went into isolation since then. As per a report in PTI, Rohit tested positive for the deadly virus once again on Wednesday (June 29) and was scheduled to undergo another&nbsp;test in the evening, followed by another on Thursday (June 30)&nbsp;on the eve of the final Test.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Addressing the media during a press conference, head coach Rahul Dravid spoke on Rohit's availability, whether Jasprit Bumrah will captain in Hitman's absence, and also made heads turn by stating that the team has plenty of options regarding who will open with Shubman Gill if Rohit misses out.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In this regard, Dravid said during a press conference, "We'll make a decision. We will weigh a lot of factors. Obviously, Mayank is a regular opener. someone who opens regularly. We have other options too; (KS) Bharat himself has opened in a lot of games for Andhra and showed in that side game that he is batting superbly at the moment. He scored a 70 and a 40 (43) after opening the batting. We got him to open in that innings keeping a lot of things in mind."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-england-5th-test-is-rohit-sharma-ruled-out-will-jasprit-bumrah-lead-visitors-dravid-gives-updates-493066"><strong>India vs England, 5th Test: Is Rohit Sharma ruled out? Will Jasprit Bumrah lead visitors? Dravid gives updates</strong></a></p>

<p>Dravid also added No. 3 batter Cheteshwar Pujara's name in the mix and said, "Pujara has got a lot of great quality. He has opened for India as well in the past. So I would not want to give things away, but like I said, in our minds, we are clear on the direction we are going. We will see what happens to Rohit, but I am not at liberty to disclose the playing XI. But we have clarity."</p>

<p>In Pujara's absence, when he was dropped for the Sri Lanka home series early this year, Hanuma Vihari had been slotted at the No. 3 position. Even Hanuma has opened for India in the MCG Test in 2018-19. Hence, India have a lot of options if Rohit misses out. For the unversed, regular opener KL Rahul is also out of action due to injury. Thus, India is without their two openers who commenced the innings in the four Tests of the incomplete five-match series versus England, which ended abruptly last year due to the Covid crisis in the then Virat Kohli-led Indian camp.</p>

<p>India is ahead by 2-1&nbsp;in the series and, thus, have an unassailable lead. Hence, they have a solid chance to win a Test series on English soil for the first time since 2007.</p>


Team India are in a spot of bother ahead of the fifth and final Test versus England, which will get underway on July 01 in Edgbaston, Birmingham. On Sunday (June 26), the regular captain Rohit Sharma tested positive for Covid-19 and went into isolation since then.

Team India are in a spot of bother ahead of the fifth and final Test versus England, which will get underway on July 01 in Edgbaston, Birmingham. On Sunday (June 26), the regular captain Rohit Sharma tested positive for Covid-19 and went into isolation since then. As per a report in PTI, Rohit tested positive for the deadly virus once again on Wednesday (June 29) and was scheduled to undergo another test in the evening, followed by another on Thursday (June 30) on the eve of the final Test. Addressing the media during a press conference, head coach Rahul Dravid spoke on Rohit's availability, whether Jasprit Bumrah will captain in Hitman's absence, and also made heads turn by stating that the team has plenty of options regarding who will open with Shubman Gill if Rohit misses out. In this regard, Dravid said during a press conference, "We'll make a decision. We will weigh a lot of factors. Obviously, Mayank is a regular opener. someone who opens regularly. We have other options too; (KS) Bharat himself has opened in a lot of games for Andhra and showed in that side game that he is batting superbly at the moment. He scored a 70 and a 40 (43) after opening the batting. We got him to open in that innings keeping a lot of things in mind." ALSO READ | India vs England, 5th Test: Is Rohit Sharma ruled out? Will Jasprit Bumrah lead visitors? Dravid gives updates Dravid also added No. 3 batter Cheteshwar Pujara's name in the mix and said, "Pujara has got a lot of great quality. He has opened for India as well in the past. So I would not want to give things away, but like I said, in our minds, we are clear on the direction we are going. We will see what happens to Rohit, but I am not at liberty to disclose the playing XI. But we have clarity." In Pujara's absence, when he was dropped for the Sri Lanka home series early this year, Hanuma Vihari had been slotted at the No. 3 position. Even Hanuma has opened for India in the MCG Test in 2018-19. Hence, India have a lot of options if Rohit misses out. For the unversed, regular opener KL Rahul is also out of action due to injury. Thus, India is without their two openers who commenced the innings in the four Tests of the incomplete five-match series versus England, which ended abruptly last year due to the Covid crisis in the then Virat Kohli-led Indian camp. India is ahead by 2-1 in the series and, thus, have an unassailable lead. Hence, they have a solid chance to win a Test series on English soil for the first time since 2007.

Rahul Dravid names 3 batters who could open for India if Rohit Sharma gets ruled out of 5th Test vs England

<p>Ahead of their one-off Test versus Ben Stokes-led England, the Rohit Sharma-led Team India players are currently involved in a four-day practice game versus Leicestershire at the&nbsp;Grace Road, Leicester. After India resumed the second day's play and declared their first innings at 246-8, thanks to wicketkeeper KS Bharat's unbeaten 70, Mohammed Shami has done wonders for India with the ball in hand.</p>

<p>Shami has been in top form and removed Leicestershire skipper&nbsp;Samuel Evans for 1 before he got rid of India's Test specialist Cheteshwar Pujara for a 6-ball duck. The right-hander, who was recalled into India's Test squad following a memorable run for Sussex in the County Championship, chopped the ball onto the stumps as Shami celebrated in style. Dismissing his Test teammate, Shami ran towards Pujara and&nbsp;gave him a warm embrace. <strong>Here's the video of the dismissal and Shami jumping on Pujara from behind:</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">☝️ | 𝐏𝐮𝐣𝐚𝐫𝐚 𝐛 𝐒𝐡𝐚𝐦𝐢.<br />
<br />
A second wicket for Shami. He dismisses his <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BCCI</a> teammate, as Pujara drags on.<br />
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Evison joins Kimber (28*).<br />
<br />
🦊 LEI 34/2<br />
<br />
𝐋𝐈𝐕𝐄 𝐒𝐓𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐌: <a href="https://t.co/APL4n65NFa">https://t.co/APL4n65NFa</a> 👈<br />
<br />
🦊 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaTourMatch?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaTourMatch</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LEIvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LEIvIND</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://t.co/ANf2NfhUAy">pic.twitter.com/ANf2NfhUAy</a></p>
— Leicestershire Foxes 🏏 (@leicsccc) <a href="https://twitter.com/leicsccc/status/1540278964459028482?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-leicestershire-rohit-sharma-cops-a-nasty-blow-on-the-box-off-jasprit-bumrah-watch-491025">India vs Leicestershire: Rohit Sharma cops a nasty blow on the box off Jasprit Bumrah - WATCH</a></strong></p>

<p>For the unversed, the Rahul Dravid-coached Indian team allowed four of their players, such as Pujara, Jasprit Bumrah, Rishabh Pant and Prasidh Krishna, to play for Leicestershire as per the pre-game agreement. The opening day saw Indian batters struggle in the conditions as the likes of Rohit and Virat Kohli got starts but perished soon before Bharat's 70 not out took them to a respectable total.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Following the practice game, India will face England in the rescheduled fifth and final Test in Edgbaston, Birmingham on July 01. It is part of the incomplete 2021 five-match series between both sides. The series came to a sudden halt last year due to Covid crisis in the then Kohli-led Indian camp. At that time, visitors had already taken an unassailable 2-1 lead. Thus, India have a chance to win their first-ever Test series on English soil since 2007.</p>


Ahead of their one-off Test versus Ben Stokes-led England, the Rohit Sharma-led Team India players are currently involved in a four-day practice game versus Leicestershire at the Grace Road, Leicester.

Ahead of their one-off Test versus Ben Stokes-led England, the Rohit Sharma-led Team India players are currently involved in a four-day practice game versus Leicestershire at the Grace Road, Leicester. After India resumed the second day's play and declared their first innings at 246-8, thanks to wicketkeeper KS Bharat's unbeaten 70, Mohammed Shami has done wonders for India with the ball in hand. Shami has been in top form and removed Leicestershire skipper Samuel Evans for 1 before he got rid of India's Test specialist Cheteshwar Pujara for a 6-ball duck. The right-hander, who was recalled into India's Test squad following a memorable run for Sussex in the County Championship, chopped the ball onto the stumps as Shami celebrated in style. Dismissing his Test teammate, Shami ran towards Pujara and gave him a warm embrace. Here's the video of the dismissal and Shami jumping on Pujara from behind: ☝️ | 𝐏𝐮𝐣𝐚𝐫𝐚 𝐛 𝐒𝐡𝐚𝐦𝐢. A second wicket for Shami. He dismisses his @BCCI teammate, as Pujara drags on. Evison joins Kimber (28*). 🦊 LEI 34/2 𝐋𝐈𝐕𝐄 𝐒𝐓𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐌: https://t.co/APL4n65NFa 👈 🦊 #IndiaTourMatch | #LEIvIND | #TeamIndia pic.twitter.com/ANf2NfhUAy — Leicestershire Foxes 🏏 (@leicsccc) June 24, 2022 × ALSO READ | India vs Leicestershire: Rohit Sharma cops a nasty blow on the box off Jasprit Bumrah - WATCH For the unversed, the Rahul Dravid-coached Indian team allowed four of their players, such as Pujara, Jasprit Bumrah, Rishabh Pant and Prasidh Krishna, to play for Leicestershire as per the pre-game agreement. The opening day saw Indian batters struggle in the conditions as the likes of Rohit and Virat Kohli got starts but perished soon before Bharat's 70 not out took them to a respectable total. Following the practice game, India will face England in the rescheduled fifth and final Test in Edgbaston, Birmingham on July 01. It is part of the incomplete 2021 five-match series between both sides. The series came to a sudden halt last year due to Covid crisis in the then Kohli-led Indian camp. At that time, visitors had already taken an unassailable 2-1 lead. Thus, India have a chance to win their first-ever Test series on English soil since 2007.

WATCH: Mohammed Shami hugs Cheteshwar Pujara after dismissing him for a duck in practice game

<p>India are all set to take on county team Leicestershire in a four-day warm-up match ahead of the much-awaited one-off fifth Test against England in Edgbaston. The four-day practice match between India and Leicestershire will get underway on June 23 at the Leicestershire County Ground. The Indian Test squad is already in Leicester as the visitors are preparing for the practice match ahead of the crucial Test against England.</p>

<p>Ahead of the start of the practice match, Leicestershire have confirmed four Indian players will be turning up for them against India in the warm-up encounter. Wicket-keeper batter Rishabh Pant, fast bowlers Jasprit Bumrah, Prasidh Krishna and veteran batter Cheteshwar Pujara are the Indian players who will be playing for Leicestershire in the warm-up game against India.</p>

<p>Sam Evans will lead the Leicestershire county team against Rohit Sharma's India in the four-day match which will be a perfect warm-up for the Indian team ahead of the big clash against England in Edgbaston. Both India and&nbsp;Leicestershire will have 13 player each in their team for the warm-up game.</p>

<p>"LCCC, BCCI, and the ECB have all agreed to allow the four players from the visiting camp to be part of the Running Foxes side, in order to allow all members of the traveling party to participate in the fixture (subject to fitness)," Leicestershire said in a statement.</p>

<p>"The match will be played with 13 players per side to provide further flexibility and help manage bowling workloads," the county club added.</p>

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<p>Leicestershire also confirmed that senior Indian spinner R Ashwin will not be part of the warm-up match between the two sides. Ashwin has missed his flight to England last week after testing positive for COVID-19. While he has recovered and is expected to join the rest of the squad soon, he will not be fit in time for the practice match.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/this-has-happened-because-of-him-ex-pakistan-captain-blames-ravi-shastri-for-virat-kohlis-poor-form-490666">'This has happened because of him': Ex-Pakistan captain blames Ravi Shastri for Virat Kohli's poor form</a></p>

<p>India are also without their opening batter and vice-captain KL Rahul, who will miss the England Test due to a groin injury. In his absence, skipper Rohit is likely to open the innings with Shubman Gill. The likes of Rohit, Kohli, Gill and Pujara will all be hoping to get some runs behind their back in the warm-up match ahead of the Edgbaston Test against England.</p>


India are all set to take on county team Leicestershire in a four-day warm-up match ahead of the much-awaited one-off fifth Test against England in Edgbaston. The four-day practice match between India and Leicestershire will get underway on June 23 at the Leicestershire County Ground.

India are all set to take on county team Leicestershire in a four-day warm-up match ahead of the much-awaited one-off fifth Test against England in Edgbaston. The four-day practice match between India and Leicestershire will get underway on June 23 at the Leicestershire County Ground. The Indian Test squad is already in Leicester as the visitors are preparing for the practice match ahead of the crucial Test against England. Ahead of the start of the practice match, Leicestershire have confirmed four Indian players will be turning up for them against India in the warm-up encounter. Wicket-keeper batter Rishabh Pant, fast bowlers Jasprit Bumrah, Prasidh Krishna and veteran batter Cheteshwar Pujara are the Indian players who will be playing for Leicestershire in the warm-up game against India. Sam Evans will lead the Leicestershire county team against Rohit Sharma's India in the four-day match which will be a perfect warm-up for the Indian team ahead of the big clash against England in Edgbaston. Both India and Leicestershire will have 13 player each in their team for the warm-up game. "LCCC, BCCI, and the ECB have all agreed to allow the four players from the visiting camp to be part of the Running Foxes side, in order to allow all members of the traveling party to participate in the fixture (subject to fitness)," Leicestershire said in a statement. "The match will be played with 13 players per side to provide further flexibility and help manage bowling workloads," the county club added. Also Read: Joe Root on cusp of surpassing Virat Kohli and Steve Smith in elite list in 3rd Test against New Zealand Leicestershire also confirmed that senior Indian spinner R Ashwin will not be part of the warm-up match between the two sides. Ashwin has missed his flight to England last week after testing positive for COVID-19. While he has recovered and is expected to join the rest of the squad soon, he will not be fit in time for the practice match. Also Read: 'This has happened because of him': Ex-Pakistan captain blames Ravi Shastri for Virat Kohli's poor form India are also without their opening batter and vice-captain KL Rahul, who will miss the England Test due to a groin injury. In his absence, skipper Rohit is likely to open the innings with Shubman Gill. The likes of Rohit, Kohli, Gill and Pujara will all be hoping to get some runs behind their back in the warm-up match ahead of the Edgbaston Test against England.

Jasprit Bumrah and Rishabh Pant among 4 Indian players to play for Leicestershire in warm-up match

<p>Rohit Sharma-led India is gearing up for the rescheduled fifth and final Test versus England, set to be held in Edgbaston, Birmingham on July 01. The match is part of the 2021 five-match series when Virat Kohli's India had toured England and had an unassailable 2-1 lead before the final encounter was cancelled in the wake of&nbsp;Covid crisis in the Indian camp.</p>

<p>Ahead of the one-off Test, India are training hard in England as the squad is a well-oiled unit, with experience and young firepower. Cheteshwar Pujara, who was dropped from the Indian squad for the Sri Lanka home series early this year, has been recalled into the line-up post his terrific run in County Championship -- where he returned with&nbsp;720 runs in 8 innings for Sussex, at an average of 120 with&nbsp;two double-tons. Thus, former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif lauded Pujara and stressed that his comeback is a lesson for all youngsters.</p>

<p>"You can learn so much from Pujara. If you get dropped, what do you have to do as a batter? You go back to County, you go back to Ranji and you score runs and runs and I mean, score tons and tons of runs. He has done that. He's an example for any young player who has been dropped and how to make a comeback. Probably you should go back to Pujara and watch what he has done in the last couple of months. He has been a fantastic player for India also. And I think he'll play No.3 for India," said Kaif while talking to NDTV during a media interaction.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-was-hit-by-covid-19-post-maldives-trip-more-cases-feared-in-indian-camp-ahead-of-eng-test-report-490539"><strong>Virat was hit by Covid-19 post Maldives trip, more cases feared in Indian camp ahead of ENG Test: Report</strong></a></p>

<p>Test specialist Pujara hasn't scored a century for India since early 2019. His ordinary run during India's three-match series versus hosts South Africa in early 2022 led to his omission, however, the 34-year-old bounced back in a jiffy to regain his spot.</p>

<p>Pujara will be eager to carry his County form forward when he turns up for India in their upcoming Test versus Ben Stokes &amp; Co. If India beat the hosts or, at least, ensures a draw, they will create history by winning their first-ever Test series on English soil since 2007. Back then, current head coach Rahul Dravid was captain of the side.</p>


Rohit Sharma-led India is gearing up for the rescheduled fifth and final Test versus England, set to be held in Edgbaston, Birmingham on July 01. The match is part of the 2021 five-match series when Virat Kohli's India had toured England and had an unassailable 2-1 lead before the final encounter was cancelled in the wake of Covid crisis in the Indian camp.

Rohit Sharma-led India is gearing up for the rescheduled fifth and final Test versus England, set to be held in Edgbaston, Birmingham on July 01. The match is part of the 2021 five-match series when Virat Kohli's India had toured England and had an unassailable 2-1 lead before the final encounter was cancelled in the wake of Covid crisis in the Indian camp. Ahead of the one-off Test, India are training hard in England as the squad is a well-oiled unit, with experience and young firepower. Cheteshwar Pujara, who was dropped from the Indian squad for the Sri Lanka home series early this year, has been recalled into the line-up post his terrific run in County Championship -- where he returned with 720 runs in 8 innings for Sussex, at an average of 120 with two double-tons. Thus, former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif lauded Pujara and stressed that his comeback is a lesson for all youngsters. "You can learn so much from Pujara. If you get dropped, what do you have to do as a batter? You go back to County, you go back to Ranji and you score runs and runs and I mean, score tons and tons of runs. He has done that. He's an example for any young player who has been dropped and how to make a comeback. Probably you should go back to Pujara and watch what he has done in the last couple of months. He has been a fantastic player for India also. And I think he'll play No.3 for India," said Kaif while talking to NDTV during a media interaction. ALSO READ | Virat was hit by Covid-19 post Maldives trip, more cases feared in Indian camp ahead of ENG Test: Report Test specialist Pujara hasn't scored a century for India since early 2019. His ordinary run during India's three-match series versus hosts South Africa in early 2022 led to his omission, however, the 34-year-old bounced back in a jiffy to regain his spot. Pujara will be eager to carry his County form forward when he turns up for India in their upcoming Test versus Ben Stokes & Co. If India beat the hosts or, at least, ensures a draw, they will create history by winning their first-ever Test series on English soil since 2007. Back then, current head coach Rahul Dravid was captain of the side.

He's an example for any young player: Md Kaif heaps praise on Cheteshwar Pujara ahead of England Test

<p>India were handed a huge blow ahead of the all-important one-off 5th Test against England in Edgbaston, Birmingham after KL Rahul was ruled out due to an injury. The opening batter had earlier missed the recently-concluded T20I series against South Africa at home after suffering a groin injury and is set to remain on the sidelines ahead of the Test match against England.</p>

<p>Rahul was named captain of the Indian team in the absence of Rohit Sharma for the five T20Is against South Africa. However, he was ruled out of the series ahead of the opening game and will not return to the team for the upcoming Ireland and England tours. While India have not named his replacement for the England Test, there were speculations about Cheteshwar Pujara being promoted as an opener in his absence.</p>

<p>However, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) recently took to social media to post footage from India's training sessions at Leicestershire and hinted at India's opening pair for the Test match. With captain Rohit Sharma confirmed to open the innings, there was a tussle between Pujara and Shubman Gill for the second spot.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/11-years-of-virat-kohli-in-test-cricket-former-india-captain-shares-special-video-to-relive-memorable-journey-489963">11 years of Kohli in Test cricket: Former India captain shares special video to relive memorable journey</a></p>

<p>However, BCCI's post has now hinted that Rohit will open the batting with Gill in the upcoming four-day warm-up match in Leicestershire followed by the 5th Test against England. "#TeamIndia openers captain @rohitsharma45 and @shubmangill are getting into the groove on Day 1 of our nets session," BCCI captioned their post with pictures of Gill and Rohit batting in the nets.</p>

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<p>The 5th Test was originally scheduled to be played in Manchester last year during India's tour of England. However, it was postponed due to COVID-19 and will now be completed in Edgbaston in July. It will be the final game of the five-match series between the two teams which is currently locked at 2-1 in India's favour.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-stamp-that-says-rishabh-pant-will-surely-play-in-t20-wc-2022-ex-india-pacer-makes-big-statement-489920">No stamp that says Rishabh Pant will surely play in T20 WC 2022: Ex-India pacer makes big statement</a></p>

<p>Rahul's absence is a huge blow for the Indian team considering he was one of the top performers for the visitors during their tour of England last year. Rahul was enjoying a prolific run with the willow and amassed 315 runs in 4 matches as an opener to help India take a 2-1 lead in the series.</p>

<p>If India manage&nbsp;to win or draw the Test match, it will be a historic series win for the visitors. India have never won a Test series in England since 2007 and this will be their first triumph on English soil in the whites since 2007.</p>


India were handed a huge blow ahead of the all-important one-off 5th Test against England in Edgbaston, Birmingham after KL Rahul was ruled out due to an injury.

India were handed a huge blow ahead of the all-important one-off 5th Test against England in Edgbaston, Birmingham after KL Rahul was ruled out due to an injury. The opening batter had earlier missed the recently-concluded T20I series against South Africa at home after suffering a groin injury and is set to remain on the sidelines ahead of the Test match against England. Rahul was named captain of the Indian team in the absence of Rohit Sharma for the five T20Is against South Africa. However, he was ruled out of the series ahead of the opening game and will not return to the team for the upcoming Ireland and England tours. While India have not named his replacement for the England Test, there were speculations about Cheteshwar Pujara being promoted as an opener in his absence. However, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) recently took to social media to post footage from India's training sessions at Leicestershire and hinted at India's opening pair for the Test match. With captain Rohit Sharma confirmed to open the innings, there was a tussle between Pujara and Shubman Gill for the second spot. Also Read: 11 years of Kohli in Test cricket: Former India captain shares special video to relive memorable journey However, BCCI's post has now hinted that Rohit will open the batting with Gill in the upcoming four-day warm-up match in Leicestershire followed by the 5th Test against England. "#TeamIndia openers captain @rohitsharma45 and @shubmangill are getting into the groove on Day 1 of our nets session," BCCI captioned their post with pictures of Gill and Rohit batting in the nets. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Team India (@indiancricketteam) × The 5th Test was originally scheduled to be played in Manchester last year during India's tour of England. However, it was postponed due to COVID-19 and will now be completed in Edgbaston in July. It will be the final game of the five-match series between the two teams which is currently locked at 2-1 in India's favour. Also Read: No stamp that says Rishabh Pant will surely play in T20 WC 2022: Ex-India pacer makes big statement Rahul's absence is a huge blow for the Indian team considering he was one of the top performers for the visitors during their tour of England last year. Rahul was enjoying a prolific run with the willow and amassed 315 runs in 4 matches as an opener to help India take a 2-1 lead in the series. If India manage to win or draw the Test match, it will be a historic series win for the visitors. India have never won a Test series in England since 2007 and this will be their first triumph on English soil in the whites since 2007.

Will Cheteshwar Pujara open against England in KL Rahul's absence? BCCI's post hints at India's opening pair

<p>On Sunday (May 22), the Chetan Sharma-led selection committee announced a 17-man squad for Rohit Sharma-led India's fifth and final Test versus England, which will be held in early July at&nbsp;Edgbaston, Birmingham.</p>

<p>Among the four senior players who were dropped for the home series versus Sri Lanka, in March, Cheteshwar Pujara is the only one to have stormed his way back into the squad. Pujara was rewarded for his memorable run for&nbsp;Sussex in the County Championship in England. The right-hander returned with&nbsp;720 runs in 8 innings at an average of 120.0, including two double-tons, to make a comeback into the Test line-up for the series decider versus England, i.e. a part of&nbsp;the incomplete series held last year in the United Kingdom.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Thus, former chief selector MSK Prasad reacted to Pujara's comeback in whites and hailed his commitment. “Unbelievable. Only one word I can say is an unbelievable comeback. This shows the commitment he has towards the sport and himself. It's a wonderful story,” Prasad told NDTV.</p>

<section><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-didnt-want-anyone-to-question-him-virender-sehwag-hails-anil-kumble-for-his-test-comeback-481825">'I didn't want anyone to question him...' - Virender Sehwag hails Anil Kumble for his Test comeback</a></strong>

<p>“Not many people would have believed what he has done. I think credit to him, for the way he performed in the County to stake his claim in the Test team. Because all through his career he has always been a Test cricketer, and had he not been there in this team, I think we would have missed him forever," the former keeper-batter added.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cheteshwar-pujara-returns-as-selectors-announce-indias-squad-for-one-off-test-against-england-481256"><strong>Cheteshwar Pujara returns as selectors announce India's squad for one-off Test against England</strong></a></p>

<p>Pujara was unsold at the IPL 2022 mega auction, following which he went to play the County championship.&nbsp;The decision proved to be a masterstroke for the Test specialist as he made a quick return to the red-ball squad after being dropped following a poor run in the South Africa Tests, held early this year.</p>

<p><strong>Indian cricket team Test squad:</strong>&nbsp;Rohit Sharma (C), KL Rahul (VC), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Hanuma Vihari, Cheteshwar Pujara, Rishabh Pant, KS Bharat, R Jadeja, R Ashwin, Shardul Thakur, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammad Siraj, Umesh Yadav, Prasidh Krishna</p>
</section>


On Sunday (May 22), the Chetan Sharma-led selection committee announced a 17-man squad for Rohit Sharma-led India's fifth and final Test versus England, which will be held in early July at Edgbaston, Birmingham.

On Sunday (May 22), the Chetan Sharma-led selection committee announced a 17-man squad for Rohit Sharma-led India's fifth and final Test versus England, which will be held in early July at Edgbaston, Birmingham. Among the four senior players who were dropped for the home series versus Sri Lanka, in March, Cheteshwar Pujara is the only one to have stormed his way back into the squad. Pujara was rewarded for his memorable run for Sussex in the County Championship in England. The right-hander returned with 720 runs in 8 innings at an average of 120.0, including two double-tons, to make a comeback into the Test line-up for the series decider versus England, i.e. a part of the incomplete series held last year in the United Kingdom. Thus, former chief selector MSK Prasad reacted to Pujara's comeback in whites and hailed his commitment. “Unbelievable. Only one word I can say is an unbelievable comeback. This shows the commitment he has towards the sport and himself. It's a wonderful story,” Prasad told NDTV. ALSO READ | 'I didn't want anyone to question him...' - Virender Sehwag hails Anil Kumble for his Test comeback “Not many people would have believed what he has done. I think credit to him, for the way he performed in the County to stake his claim in the Test team. Because all through his career he has always been a Test cricketer, and had he not been there in this team, I think we would have missed him forever," the former keeper-batter added. ALSO READ | Cheteshwar Pujara returns as selectors announce India's squad for one-off Test against England Pujara was unsold at the IPL 2022 mega auction, following which he went to play the County championship. The decision proved to be a masterstroke for the Test specialist as he made a quick return to the red-ball squad after being dropped following a poor run in the South Africa Tests, held early this year. Indian cricket team Test squad: Rohit Sharma (C), KL Rahul (VC), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Hanuma Vihari, Cheteshwar Pujara, Rishabh Pant, KS Bharat, R Jadeja, R Ashwin, Shardul Thakur, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammad Siraj, Umesh Yadav, Prasidh Krishna

Former chief selector reacts to Cheteshwar Pujara's Test comeback for India-England series finale

<p>Cheteshwar Pujara made a well-deserved comeback to the Indian cricket team squad for the rescheduled 5th Test against England, which will be played in Birmingham in the first week of July.</p>

<p>Pujara earned his place back in the squad after a host of strong performances for Sussex in County Championship Division 2 including two double centuries.</p>

<p>Even the wicketkeeping department saw some development as KS Bharat has been named as backup to first-team Rishabh Pant. The rest of the squad, though, is more on similar lines with Rohit Sharma leading the team. KL Rahul was appointed his deputy as the top order remains similar.</p>

<p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/huge-blunder-rishabh-pant-decides-not-to-review-after-tim-david-edges-delivery-from-shardul-thakur-watch-481135" hreflang="en">Pant decides not to review after David edges delivery from Shardul - WATCH</a></p>

<p>The pace-bowling consists of Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Umesh Yadav, Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna, with Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja taking care of the spin options.</p>

<p>Prasidh Krishna is the new face in the bowling attack after a good showing in IPL 2022.</p>

<p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/google-doodle-celebrates-gama-pehlwan-everything-you-need-to-know-about-indias-legendary-wrestler-481238" hreflang="en">Google Doodle celebrates Gama Pehlwan - Everything you need to know</a></p>

<p>Shubman Gill and Shreyas Iyer have enjoyed a good outing in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 and it will not come as a surprise if one of them can find a place in the playing XI. Gill had a good show in England earlier and a return can be one on the cards for the youngster.</p>

<p><strong>Indian cricket team Test squad:</strong> Rohit Sharma (C), KL Rahul (VC), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Hanuma Vihari, Cheteshwar Pujara, Rishabh Pant, KS Bharat, R Jadeja, R Ashwin, Shardul Thakur, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammad Siraj, Umesh Yadav, Prasidh Krishna</p>


Cheteshwar Pujara made a well-deserved comeback to the Indian cricket team squad for the rescheduled 5th Test against England, which will be played in Birmingham in the first week of July.

Cheteshwar Pujara made a well-deserved comeback to the Indian cricket team squad for the rescheduled 5th Test against England, which will be played in Birmingham in the first week of July. Pujara earned his place back in the squad after a host of strong performances for Sussex in County Championship Division 2 including two double centuries. Even the wicketkeeping department saw some development as KS Bharat has been named as backup to first-team Rishabh Pant. The rest of the squad, though, is more on similar lines with Rohit Sharma leading the team. KL Rahul was appointed his deputy as the top order remains similar. Also read | Pant decides not to review after David edges delivery from Shardul - WATCH The pace-bowling consists of Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Umesh Yadav, Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna, with Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja taking care of the spin options. Prasidh Krishna is the new face in the bowling attack after a good showing in IPL 2022. Also read | Google Doodle celebrates Gama Pehlwan - Everything you need to know Shubman Gill and Shreyas Iyer have enjoyed a good outing in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 and it will not come as a surprise if one of them can find a place in the playing XI. Gill had a good show in England earlier and a return can be one on the cards for the youngster. Indian cricket team Test squad: Rohit Sharma (C), KL Rahul (VC), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, Hanuma Vihari, Cheteshwar Pujara, Rishabh Pant, KS Bharat, R Jadeja, R Ashwin, Shardul Thakur, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammad Siraj, Umesh Yadav, Prasidh Krishna

Cheteshwar Pujara returns as selectors announce India's squad for one-off Test against England

<p>Pakistan wicket-keeper batter Mohammad Rizwan has heaped praise on Indian stalwart Cheteshwar Pujara after playing with him for Sussex in county cricket. Rizwan revealed he has a cordial relationship on and off the field with Pujara and never misses a chance to tease him in the dressing room.</p>

<p>India and Pakistan share one of the greatest rivalries in cricket but the two teams have not played any bilateral cricket since 2013 due to political tensions between the two nations. Thus, cricket fans around the globe were excited when Rizwan joined forces with Pujara for Sussex in the county championships division 2.</p>

<p>The duo has been brilliant for their side and has enjoyed batting with each other. Pujara and Rizwan shared a 150-run stand for Sussex in their clash against Durham where the Indian batter was seen appreciating his Pakistani teammate after his fifty in the game.</p>

<p>Opening up about his bond with Pujara, Rizwan revealed the senior India batter is a nice and loving guy and that they have never felt strange sharing the same dressing room at Sussex. Rizwan also revealed that Pujara's concentration level is one trait he would like to learn from the Indian veteran.</p>

<p>"As far as myself and Pujara are concerned, I didn't feel anything strange. And hopefully, if you ask him, his answer will be the same as mine. Although I do share a laugh with him and tease him (laughs) and everyone in the team knows this," Rizwan told <em>Cricwick.</em></p>

<p>"He is a very nice and loving guy. And his concentration and focus too... If you get a chance to learn something, you should do it," he added.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-gave-up-were-weak-gautam-gambhir-delivers-strong-speech-in-dressing-room-after-lsg-lose-to-gt-478112">'We gave up &amp; were weak': Gambhir delivers strong speech in dressing room after LSG lose to GT</a></p>

<p>Rizwan went on to state that he rates Pujara highly and that his concentration level is one of the best in the world. The Pakistan wicket-keeper also named Pujara in his top three batters with the best concentration level in cricket.</p>

<p>"In terms of concentration levels and I told this to the coaches here too. In my whole career, the players with most focus, concentration are Younis bhai, Fawad Alam and his (Pujara's). Pujara is second on my list and Fawad Alam on three in terms of pure concentration and focus. I rate these three players very highly," he said.</p>

<p>After being dropped from the Indian Test squad for the home series against Sri Lanka earlier this year, Pujara had decided to head to England and play some county cricket to regain form. He has been enjoying a stunning campaign for Sussex having already scored two double centuries and as many hundreds for the team.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-has-full-authority-virat-kohli-opens-up-on-his-equation-with-faf-du-plessis-after-leaving-rcb-captaincy-478130">'He has full authority': Kohli opens up on his equation with Faf du Plessis after leaving RCB captaincy</a></p>

<p>Pujara has been making a strong case for his selection in the Indian Test squad once again with his performances in England. It remains to be seen if the senior batter will be allowed to make his comeback in the whites for India in their next Test assignment.</p>


Pakistan wicket-keeper batter Mohammad Rizwan has heaped praise on Indian stalwart Cheteshwar Pujara after playing with him for Sussex in county cricket. Rizwan revealed he has a cordial relationship on and off the field with Pujara and never misses a chance to tease him in the dressing room.

Pakistan wicket-keeper batter Mohammad Rizwan has heaped praise on Indian stalwart Cheteshwar Pujara after playing with him for Sussex in county cricket. Rizwan revealed he has a cordial relationship on and off the field with Pujara and never misses a chance to tease him in the dressing room. India and Pakistan share one of the greatest rivalries in cricket but the two teams have not played any bilateral cricket since 2013 due to political tensions between the two nations. Thus, cricket fans around the globe were excited when Rizwan joined forces with Pujara for Sussex in the county championships division 2. The duo has been brilliant for their side and has enjoyed batting with each other. Pujara and Rizwan shared a 150-run stand for Sussex in their clash against Durham where the Indian batter was seen appreciating his Pakistani teammate after his fifty in the game. Opening up about his bond with Pujara, Rizwan revealed the senior India batter is a nice and loving guy and that they have never felt strange sharing the same dressing room at Sussex. Rizwan also revealed that Pujara's concentration level is one trait he would like to learn from the Indian veteran. "As far as myself and Pujara are concerned, I didn't feel anything strange. And hopefully, if you ask him, his answer will be the same as mine. Although I do share a laugh with him and tease him (laughs) and everyone in the team knows this," Rizwan told Cricwick. "He is a very nice and loving guy. And his concentration and focus too... If you get a chance to learn something, you should do it," he added. Also Read: 'We gave up & were weak': Gambhir delivers strong speech in dressing room after LSG lose to GT Rizwan went on to state that he rates Pujara highly and that his concentration level is one of the best in the world. The Pakistan wicket-keeper also named Pujara in his top three batters with the best concentration level in cricket. "In terms of concentration levels and I told this to the coaches here too. In my whole career, the players with most focus, concentration are Younis bhai, Fawad Alam and his (Pujara's). Pujara is second on my list and Fawad Alam on three in terms of pure concentration and focus. I rate these three players very highly," he said. After being dropped from the Indian Test squad for the home series against Sri Lanka earlier this year, Pujara had decided to head to England and play some county cricket to regain form. He has been enjoying a stunning campaign for Sussex having already scored two double centuries and as many hundreds for the team. Also Read: 'He has full authority': Kohli opens up on his equation with Faf du Plessis after leaving RCB captaincy Pujara has been making a strong case for his selection in the Indian Test squad once again with his performances in England. It remains to be seen if the senior batter will be allowed to make his comeback in the whites for India in their next Test assignment.

'He is a loving guy': Pakistan star Mohammad Rizwan lauds Cheteshwar Pujara after playing together for Sussex

<p>Cheteshwar Pujara continued his imperious form with a fourth successive hundred for Sussex against a quality Middlesex attack that had Pakistan international Shaheen Shah Afridi in its ranks.</p>

<p>Pujara, who has already scored two double hundreds and a hundred, batted with an attacking intent, completing his three-figure mark in 133 balls with 13 boundaries and two sixes.</p>

<p>The first of his two sixes is the one he will remember as he slashed a short ball from Afridi over backward point for a six.</p>

<p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/was-supposed-to-be-the-captain-yuvraj-singh-claims-he-lost-india-captaincy-to-ms-dhoni-due-to-chappell-row-477350">Yuvraj claims he lost India captaincy to Dhoni due to Chappell incident</a></p>

<p>He also hit a boundary off Afridi and negotiated one of world's premier pacer with ease, completing 500 runs for the season in only four games.</p>

<p>At stumps on third day, Pujara was batting on 125 off 149 balls with 16 boundaries and two sixes and Sussex in their second innings have reached 236 for three in their second innings. Middlesex had scored 358 in their first essay in reply to Sussex' 392.</p>

<p>Pujara's hundred came off off-spinner Mark Stoneman, whom he drove for three runs.</p>

<p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mothers-day-when-ms-dhoni-led-indian-team-paid-tribute-to-mothers-by-sporting-their-names-on-jerseys-477315" hreflang="en">Mother's Day: When MS Dhoni-led Indian team paid tribute to mothers by sporting their names on jerseys</a></p>

<p>Pujara was very attacking throughout the innings and it only helped that the pitch at Sussex's county ground at Hove was a flat one and with bright sunshine, there wasn't much happening in the air or off the track.</p>

<p>Pujara added 138 for the third wicket with first innings centurion Tom Aslop (66 off 90 balls) and was severe on young medum pacer Blake Cullen.</p>

<p>Pujara's sequence of scores in county cricket stands as 6, 201no, 109, 12, 203, 16, 125 no with a total of 582* runs in four games.</p>


Cheteshwar Pujara continued his imperious form with a fourth successive hundred for Sussex against a quality Middlesex attack that had Pakistan international Shaheen Shah Afridi in its ranks.

Cheteshwar Pujara continued his imperious form with a fourth successive hundred for Sussex against a quality Middlesex attack that had Pakistan international Shaheen Shah Afridi in its ranks. Pujara, who has already scored two double hundreds and a hundred, batted with an attacking intent, completing his three-figure mark in 133 balls with 13 boundaries and two sixes. The first of his two sixes is the one he will remember as he slashed a short ball from Afridi over backward point for a six. Also read | Yuvraj claims he lost India captaincy to Dhoni due to Chappell incident He also hit a boundary off Afridi and negotiated one of world's premier pacer with ease, completing 500 runs for the season in only four games. At stumps on third day, Pujara was batting on 125 off 149 balls with 16 boundaries and two sixes and Sussex in their second innings have reached 236 for three in their second innings. Middlesex had scored 358 in their first essay in reply to Sussex' 392. Pujara's hundred came off off-spinner Mark Stoneman, whom he drove for three runs. Also read | Mother's Day: When MS Dhoni-led Indian team paid tribute to mothers by sporting their names on jerseys Pujara was very attacking throughout the innings and it only helped that the pitch at Sussex's county ground at Hove was a flat one and with bright sunshine, there wasn't much happening in the air or off the track. Pujara added 138 for the third wicket with first innings centurion Tom Aslop (66 off 90 balls) and was severe on young medum pacer Blake Cullen. Pujara's sequence of scores in county cricket stands as 6, 201no, 109, 12, 203, 16, 125 no with a total of 582* runs in four games.

Cheteshwar Pujara scores fourth successive ton in county cricket, wins his battle against Shaheen Afridi

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