Robin Uthappa Calls for Pujara’s Immediate Return to India Squad Amid Batting Woes
Former India cricketer Robin Uthappa weighed in on the issue, stressing the significance of Pujara’s contributions to the team’s success, particularly in the challenging Australian conditions. On his YouTube channel, Uthappa stated, “There is still a place for a player like Cheteshwar Pujara.
India’s recent batting struggles, highlighted by their 3-0 whitewash at the hands of New Zealand, have sparked growing concerns as the team prepares for the demanding Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia. With India facing Australia’s formidable bowling attack on challenging pitches, the absence of Cheteshwar Pujara – a key figure in India’s successful campaigns in Australia in 2018-19 and 2020-21 – has raised alarm.
Former India cricketer Robin Uthappa weighed in on the issue, stressing the significance of Pujara’s contributions to the team’s success, particularly in the challenging Australian conditions. On his YouTube channel, Uthappa stated, “There is still a place for a player like Cheteshwar Pujara. According to me, a place for him will have to be made in this team as soon as possible. It's a need.” His comments reflect a growing sentiment among former players and analysts who believe that India’s current batting unit could benefit from Pujara’s experience and temperament.
Pujara, known for his ability to bat long hours and frustrate opposition bowlers, was an integral part of India’s historic series victories in Australia. His replacement at number three, Shubman Gill, has shown flashes of brilliance but also faced challenges with certain technical aspects of his game. While Gill impressed on his debut tour of Australia, Uthappa pointed out that the team still requires a player with the patience and composure that Pujara offers at number three.
Uthappa explained, “We need someone like Cheteshwar Pujara, Rahul Dravid, Kane Williamson, and Will Young. We always need someone who can become an anchor and hold one end up while all the other batters bat around him.” He emphasized the importance of having a solid, technically sound batter who can absorb pressure and build partnerships with more aggressive players like Virat Kohli and Rishabh Pant.
As India faces one of its most challenging tours, Uthappa’s comments highlight the need to reassess Pujara’s absence from the squad. While the team may be looking to the future and developing younger talent, bringing back a proven performer like Pujara could provide much-needed stability in the middle order, particularly against Australia’s world-class bowlers.
