Cheteshwar Pujara – The Rock of India's Test Line‑up

If you’ve ever watched an India Test match and wondered who’s holding the innings together, chances are you’ve seen Cheteshwar Pujara at the crease. The Bangalore‑born batsman isn’t flashy, but his ability to grind out runs makes him a priceless asset for India.

Why Pujara Matters in Modern Test Cricket

Pujara’s game is built on patience. He loves long hours at the crease, turning tough pitches into scoring opportunities. While many modern batsmen rely on power hitting, Pujara’s technique is more about staying in and wearing down bowlers. That’s why he’s often compared to the likes of Rahul Dravid – the ‘Wall’ of Indian cricket.

His stats back up the reputation. Over 6,000 Test runs, a double‑century against Australia in Adelaide, and more than 25 centuries across the format show that he can produce big scores when the team needs them most. Even on spin‑friendly tracks in India, he knows how to play the ball late, using his wrists to guide it into gaps.

Key Highlights of Pujara’s Career

• Debut and Early Success: Made his Test debut in 2010 against Australia and quickly earned a place with a solid 115 in his second innings. • Cricket World Cup 2023: Though primarily a Test player, his experience helped the squad during crucial moments. • Record Partnerships: Partnered with Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane for several marathon stands that rescued India from collapse. • Award Wins: Received the prestigious Arjuna Award for his contributions to Indian cricket.

Off the field, Pujara is known for his calm demeanor. He rarely shows frustration and often talks about the importance of mental strength. Young cricketers look up to his work ethic – long hours in the nets, focusing on footwork, and staying fit.

When you watch a Pujara innings, you’ll notice a few things: a small bat swing, a steady head position, and an eagerness to leave balls outside the off‑stump. He’s also great at rotating the strike, turning singles into boundaries through relentless pressure.

For fans wanting to see Pujara in action, his recent performances in the Border‑Gavaskar Trophy are a good start. He scored a gritty 105 in the second Test, helping India clinch the series. That innings summed up his style – a mix of concentration, patience, and the occasional flamboyant cover drive.

In short, Cheteshwar Pujara might not be the most talked‑about name on social media, but his impact on India’s Test success is undeniable. Whether you’re a budding cricketer or just love the sport, watching Pujara’s methodical approach can teach you a lot about resilience, technique, and the art of building an innings.

Stay tuned to PC Literacy Info for more stories on Indian cricket legends and tips to improve your own batting technique.