Pujara to be included in India squad for BGT 2024-25?
Cheteshwar Pujara, one of India’s most celebrated Test cricketers, solidified his legacy further by smashing his 18th double century in First-Class cricket during Saurashtra’s recent Ranji Trophy match against Chhattisgarh. This remarkable achievement has now elevated him to fourth place in the all-time list for most First-Class double centuries, placing him alongside legends like Don Bradman, Wally Hammond, and Patsy Hendren. So let’s take a look at Pujara to be included in India squad for BGT 2024-25.
Even though Pujara has been out of the Indian Test team for the past 18 months, his undying passion for red-ball cricket continues to shine. After being dropped from the national squad, Pujara shifted his focus to County Cricket in England, where he accumulated runs and honed his technique.
This persistent dedication brought him back to India for the 2024-25 Ranji Trophy season, where he once again showcased why he remains a pillar of resilience in the domestic circuit. Pujara’s journey over the past two years has been one of grit and determination. Rather than being bogged down by his exclusion from the Indian squad, he used this time to rediscover his form and make a solid statement in the ongoing Ranji season.
A Historic Knock of 234 in Rajkot
In the recent Ranji Trophy match between Saurashtra and Chhattisgarh, Cheteshwar Pujara delivered a stunning performance, scoring 234 runs off 383 balls. His innings came as a response to Chhattisgarh’s imposing first-innings total of 578/7 declared in Rajkot. Pujara’s classic, patient knock demonstrated his ability to anchor an innings even under challenging circumstances.
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Reaching his double century in his trademark grinding style, Pujara had earlier crossed the milestone of his 66th First-Class century in just 197 balls. This monumental innings not only helped Saurashtra in the game but also highlighted Pujara’s continued dominance in First-Class cricket.
Moving Past Brian Lara and Eyeing Indian Greats
With his 66th First-Class century, Pujara surpassed the legendary Brian Lara, who had 65 tons in the same format. This feat underlines Pujara’s consistency and longevity in the game, placing him in an elite league of cricketers.
Looking ahead, Pujara is now only two centuries away from equaling Rahul Dravid’s tally of 68 First-Class hundreds. Above Dravid, only Sunil Gavaskar and Sachin Tendulkar stand tall with 81 First-Class centuries each, an achievement that Pujara is inching closer to with every match.
Conclusion: What’s The Future of Cheteshwar Pujara In Indian Cricket
Cheteshwar Pujara’s journey in First-Class cricket is a testament to his unparalleled commitment to the game. Despite being away from international cricket, his performances in County and Ranji Trophy continue to solidify his status as one of the greatest red-ball cricketers in India’s history. As Pujara piles on the runs, fans and critics alike can’t help but admire his persistence and wonder if a national comeback might still be on the horizon.
