Cheteshwar Pujara Eyes England Test Series Spot with Renewed Determination

Cheteshwar Pujara Eyes England Test Series Spot with Renewed Determination

Pujara Ready to Seize Opportunity in England Series

Kolkata, March 7, 2025 – India’s No. 3 batting position has been under the scanner ever since the team’s disappointing 3 - 1 defeat in the Test series against Australia. A lack of consistency in the middle order left India vulnerable, and many believe the selectors might have missed a trick by not including Cheteshwar Pujara in the squad. As India gears up for their next major red-ball challenge a five-Test series in England starting in June Pujara has made it clear that he is more than ready for a recall.

Speaking at the RevSportz Trailblazers 3.0 Conclave, in a session moderated by Boria Majumdar, Pujara shared his thoughts on his potential return to the national team. “I'm playing domestic cricket. If given a chance, I'm ready to grab it with both hands. The hunger is even more. When you are older, you need to work even harder,” he emphasized.

The session, titled Never Say Never, Eye on England, was the highlight of the opening day of India’s premier sports conclave. Pujara’s candid discussion provided insight into his mindset, preparation, and belief in India’s chances in the highly anticipated England series.

Pujara’s Legacy: A Proven Performer in Overseas Conditions

Pujara's ability to soak up pressure and grind down bowling attacks is well documented. When India secured their first-ever Test series win in Australia during the 2018-19 tour, Pujara was the backbone of their batting lineup. His tally of 521 runs in that series, spanning an astonishing 1,258 deliveries, was a testament to his resilience and ability to anchor an innings in the toughest conditions.

“Australia are the toughest when it comes to Test cricket. India never like to lose to Australia. That’s why 2018 was like winning the World Cup. It was the biggest achievement of my Test career. And also, 2020-21, when we repeated history,” Pujara reflected.

With England’s bowling attack expected to challenge India’s batters in seaming and swinging conditions, Pujara’s experience could prove invaluable. His ability to weather difficult spells, wear down bowlers, and play the long innings that define Test cricket could be the missing piece India needs to succeed in England.

Rigorous Preparation: Pujara’s Training Regimen for a Comeback

Pujara has left no stone unturned in preparing himself for the challenges of Test cricket. He has been training intensely, including facing Kuldeep Sharma, a left-arm seamer and his longtime friend from U-19 days, on a cement pitch from a shortened distance of 16-18 yards. This rigorous training simulates the sharp bounce and movement of overseas conditions, keeping Pujara sharp and ready for any challenge.

“I’ve always believed in preparation. You can’t take shortcuts in Test cricket. Facing quality bowlers in tough conditions is what helps you improve. That’s why my training is designed to make me better every day,” he explained.

India’s Prospects in England: Batting Depth and Bowling Strength

While much focus has been placed on India’s inconsistent batting performances, Pujara remains optimistic about the team’s chances in England. He believes that India has the resources to put up strong totals, provided the batters apply themselves.

“We have the bowling. We need to put runs on the board. And we have the players to do that. We have to respect the bowling and the conditions. I won’t say that we don’t have a chance,” he said, showing his belief in the team’s capabilities.

With a well-rounded bowling attack led by Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and Ravindra Jadeja, India possesses the firepower to challenge England on their home turf. The key, however, will be how the batting unit adapts to the swinging ball and testing conditions. If India can post competitive totals, they have the arsenal to put England under pressure.

Champions Trophy Final: Pujara Backs India Against New Zealand

Apart from Test cricket, Pujara also shared his thoughts on India’s upcoming ICC Champions Trophy final against New Zealand, scheduled to be played in Dubai. Despite concerns over India’s so-called ‘home advantage,’ Pujara dismissed any controversy surrounding the tournament’s hybrid model.

“The schedule was put out before the start of the tournament. The tournament is being played in a hybrid model because India couldn't go to Pakistan due to security reasons. I don’t think there’s any advantage here,” he stated.

Pujara believes that India has the upper hand going into the final, given their balanced squad and experience in high-pressure games. However, he acknowledged that New Zealand remains a formidable opponent and cannot be underestimated.

The Road Ahead: Will Pujara Get the Nod for England

With the England series fast approaching, all eyes will be on the selectors as they finalize the squad. Pujara’s hunger, experience, and determination make a compelling case for his return, especially given India’s struggles in the No. 3 position in recent times.

His ability to absorb pressure and play long innings could be crucial in England, where patience and resilience are key to success. If he does get the nod, Indian fans can expect the veteran batter to bring his trademark grit and solidity to the crease, reinforcing the team’s batting lineup in challenging conditions.