India is all set to face England in a five-match Test series at home. On January 25, Hyderabad’s Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium will host the first game of the series.
As the much-anticipated India vs England Test series draws near, Virat Kohli opted out of the first two matches due to personal reasons.
This unexpected absence has ignited discussions and speculation about who could fill the significant void left by Kohli, and one name that resonates strongly is the seasoned campaigner, Cheteshwar Pujara.
Here are three key reasons why Cheteshwar Pujara is viewed as a frontrunner to replace Kohli in the upcoming Test series.
1. Consistent Form and Proven Resilience:
Cheteshwar Pujara’s recent form has been nothing short of impressive, showcasing his ability to adapt and perform in varying cricketing conditions.
In recent encounters, Pujara has demonstrated resilience and determination, crucial attributes for Test cricket.
His ability to weather stormy sessions, blunt hostile bowling attacks, and anchor the innings makes him an ideal candidate to replace Kohli.
Pujara’s recent exploits have not only solidified his spot in the Indian lineup but have also instilled confidence in his ability to step up when the team needs him the most.
2. Experience and Middle-Order Stability:
With Virat Kohli being a backbone in the Indian batting lineup, his absence demands a player with experience and composure to hold the middle order together.
Cheteshwar Pujara, with over 100 Test matches under his belt, brings a wealth of experience to the table.
His calm demeanor and ability to build partnerships are essential components for success in Test cricket.
Pujara’s presence in the middle order provides much-needed stability, assuring fans and teammates both that the backbone of the batting lineup remains intact.
3. Impressive Test Records and Milestones:
Cheteshwar Pujara’s Test cricket journey is adorned with remarkable achievements and milestones.
Recently, he joined an elite group of Indian batting legends, including Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, and Sunil Gavaskar, by amassing over 20,000 runs in first-class cricket.
This accomplishment not only reflects Pujara’s longevity and consistency but also underscores his ability to thrive in the longer format of the game.
With 7195 runs in 103 Test matches at an average of 44.36, Pujara’s statistics speak volumes about his reliability and proficiency as a Test batsman.
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