Debate Intensifies Over Pujara's Recall After India’s Test Series Loss to New Zealand
Former Indian chief selector MSK Prasad expressed his belief that the team made a mistake by not including Pujara in the Test squad against New Zealand. Prasad highlighted Pujara's strong performance in the last two Test series in Australia, as well as his recent double century in the Ranji Trophy. “
In the wake of India’s disappointing home Test series loss to New Zealand, discussions about recalling Cheteshwar Pujara for the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy series are heating up. This defeat marks the first time in 12 years that India has lost a Test series on home soil, ending an impressive streak of 18 consecutive series victories. With India's prospects for qualifying for the World Test Championship final now in jeopardy, fans and analysts alike are calling for the selectors to reconsider Pujara's inclusion in the squad.
Pujara has a commendable record in Australia, having scored 993 runs in 11 Test matches at an average of 47.28, which includes three centuries and five fifties. Notably, he was a key player during India’s historic 2018/19 series victory, where he accumulated 521 runs in seven innings, earning the Player of the Match award for his contributions.
On the other hand, former selectors Vijay Dahiya and Devang Gandhi expressed opposing views on the matter. They believe it may not be wise for India to return to Pujara, given that the team has clearly indicated a desire to move on from the seasoned batter over the past year. Dahiya pointed out that while Pujara has been exceptional for India, his recent double century came against Chhattisgarh, a team that lacks a strong domestic bowling attack. He noted, “It was a match where 1000 runs were scored, and both teams got a point.”
Gandhi echoed this sentiment, arguing that if the current selection committee has chosen to move on from Pujara, it would not be prudent to revert back. Pujara last represented India in the World Test Championship final against Australia in June 2023.
As the Indian team gears up for the crucial Border-Gavaskar Trophy series against Australia, the selectors face a tough decision. The outcome will not only impact India’s chances for the World Test Championship but also the future of players like Pujara, who have been pivotal to the team's success in the past.
