Cheteshwar Pujara, the rock of Indian Test cricket, proved once again why he is one of the best players in the game’s longest format. While playing in a Ranji Trophy match, Pujara was left agonizingly short of a well-deserved century, falling to the score of 99 runs. His 167-ball innings was a display of classic Test cricket technique, full of resilience and skill, even though he fell just short of the landmark. His performance was a testament to his ability to dominate in first-class cricket, and despite missing the century, it reaffirmed his legendary status in the format.
Pujara’s innings of 99 runs, with 10 beautifully timed boundaries, depicted his signature style—solid technique, impeccable patience, and the ability to grind out runs in the longest format of the game. As usual, Pujara remained very calm and composed at the crease, an ability to shift gears and wear down the opposition bowlers. His concentration was evident, especially in the way he absorbed pressure and faced a barrage of deliveries without losing focus.
Despite the setback of losing three-figures, the knock Pujara played gave a pivotal position to his innings. He actually laid the very foundation which went invaluable and brought about the virtues of batting disciplines and determination through him for a model young cricketers needed to look towards. Pujara, on the other hand, was always a regular figure for India, especially during Test cricket days, as long as his correct technique and sound batting helped maintain a steady slot in the middle order.
Knock and a reminder: Pujara’s consistency in first-class format has often been the bedrock of his cricketing career. He has done runs for fun in domestic cricket, and his performances in Ranji Trophy have been consistent at the top-most level. He is known for his hard work, thus often the quintessential cricketer who thrives in the longer formats and rarely gets rattled under pressure.
Such performances have earned Pujara the sobriquet of a “Test legend.” While limited-overs formats are gaining popularity, Pujara has remained true to what he does best—building innings and grinding down bowlers in the longer version of the game. His commitment to the first-class format has gone a long way in making him successful for the national team, where he has often been the pillar of stability in India’s batting line-up during difficult Test matches.
Pujara’s approach to the game can inspire lots of young cricketers who look up to him as inspiring in dedicating himself, hard work, and technique. His innings of 99 in the Ranji Trophy is the other example of excellence in domestic cricket, indicating his skill set, and his ability to withstand challenges calm and composed.