Hunger is Stronger Than Ever, Ready to Seize England Opportunity: Cheteshwar Pujara

Add as a preferred source on Google

India's recent 3-1 Test series defeat in Australia highlighted a glaring concern-the lack of stability at the No. 3 batting position. The inability to post competitive totals proved costly, leading many to wonder whether the selectors erred in omitting veteran batter Cheteshwar Pujara.

With India's next Test challenge being a five-match series in England starting June, speculation is rife about Pujara's possible return to the squad.

Speaking at the RevSportz Trailblazers 3.0 Conclave, Pujara made his intentions clear: "I'm playing domestic cricket. If given a chance, I'm ready to grab it with both hands. The hunger is even more. When you are older, you need to work even harder." The session, titled Never Say Never, Eye on England, was moderated by RevSportz's Editor-in-Chief, Boria Majumdar.

A key architect of India's historic Test triumph in Australia in 2018-19, Pujara was instrumental in that series victory, amassing 521 runs and facing an astounding 1,258 deliveries. Reflecting on those achievements, he remarked, "Australia are the toughest when it comes to Test cricket. India never like to lose to Australia. That's why 2018 was like winning the World Cup. It was the biggest achievement of my Test career. And also, 2020-21, when we repeated history."

Pujara also shed light on his rigorous training regime, particularly facing left-arm seamer Kuldeep Sharma-his former U-19 teammate-on a cement pitch from a reduced distance of 16-18 yards, a method designed to enhance reflexes and prepare for high-paced bowling.

Looking ahead to the England series, Pujara remains optimistic. "We have the bowling. We need to put runs on the board. And we have the players to do that. We have to respect the bowling and the conditions. I won't say that we don't have a chance."

Beyond his personal aspirations, Pujara also shared his thoughts on India's upcoming Champions Trophy final against New Zealand, dismissing claims of a home advantage in Dubai. "I don't think so. The schedule was put out before the start of the tournament. The tournament is being played in a hybrid model because India couldn't go to Pakistan due to security reasons."

As the RevSportz Conclave got underway with a dynamic start, Pujara's session provided an engaging conclusion to the opening day, leaving fans eager to see if the seasoned batter will don the Indian whites once again in England.