Calls for Cheteshwar Pujara's Recall Grow Following India's Test Loss to New Zealand
Pujara boasts an impressive Test record in Australia, with 993 runs at an average of 47.28, including three centuries. His standout performance in the historic 2018/19 series, where he scored 521 runs, is particularly noteworthy. However, his recent performances have raised questions about his suitability for a recall.
The conversation surrounding Cheteshwar Pujara's potential return to the Indian Test team is intensifying after India's recent series defeat to New Zealand. This marked the first time in 12 years that India has lost a Test series on home soil, ending their impressive streak of 18 consecutive series victories. With the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy series critical for India's World Test Championship aspirations, many fans and former selectors are advocating for Pujara's inclusion.
Former chief selector MSK Prasad believes that omitting Pujara from the Australian series was a significant oversight. He pointed to Pujara's recent form, including a double century in the Ranji Trophy, as evidence of his readiness and the experience he would bring to the team in Australian conditions. Prasad expressed his opinion, stating, “If they had to pick Nitish Reddy, you could have waited for at least one India A match and taken it from there.”
Pujara boasts an impressive Test record in Australia, with 993 runs at an average of 47.28, including three centuries. His standout performance in the historic 2018/19 series, where he scored 521 runs, is particularly noteworthy. However, his recent performances have raised questions about his suitability for a recall.
On the other hand, former selectors Vijay Dahiya and Devang Gandhi argue against Pujara’s return, suggesting that the team has moved on. Dahiya pointed out that while Pujara has been an asset to Indian cricket, his recent double century came against a weaker Chhattisgarh team, which does not reflect the competitive nature of international cricket. He remarked, “It was a match where 1000 runs were scored, and both teams got a point.”
Gandhi echoed Dahiya’s sentiments, emphasizing that if the current selection committee has opted to move past Pujara, it wouldn’t be wise to reconsider that decision now. Pujara's last appearance for India was in the World Test Championship final against Australia in June 2023, and his future with the national team remains uncertain as discussions continue.
As the Border-Gavaskar Trophy approaches, the selectors face a critical decision that could shape the future of the Indian Test team.
