Cheteshwar Pujara, known as the bedrock of India’s Test batting lineup for over a decade, has been a nemesis for Australian bowlers. With 7195 runs in 103 matches at an average of 43.60, his contributions were invaluable. His performances in Australia were particularly notable, scoring 993 runs in 11 Tests at an impressive average of 47.28. However, it wasn’t just his runs but his unyielding resilience that frustrated the Australians, often blunting their pace attack and wearing them down session after session.
Cheteshwar Pujara’s grit played a pivotal role in India’s success Down Under in recent years. Reflecting on this, Australian pacer Josh Hazlewood expressed relief at Pujara’s absence from the current series.
“I’m pretty happy that Cheteshwar Pujara isn’t here. He’s someone who bats with time, makes you earn his wicket, and has always done well in Australia. He used to tire out bowlers with his defence,” Josh Hazlewood admitted.
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However, he acknowledged that India’s young talents are equally formidable. “There’s always fresh faces in the Indian team, and they understand the pressure to perform with so much competition for places. Whoever they pick in the XI, they’re always incredible players.”
As usual, a Test series involving Virat Kohli in Australia brings heightened anticipation. Kohli, with his commanding presence and past successes Down Under, is naturally a focal point. Yet, Hazlewood emphasized that Australia is not solely fixated on Kohli.
“Our focus isn’t just on Kohli, though he’s a crucial wicket and has had great success here. Players like Rishabh Pant and Jasprit Bumrah can also turn games around with their skills, so we’re looking at the entire team,” Josh Hazlewood explained.
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The Australian pacer’s comments highlight the mutual respect between the two cricketing giants. While Pujara’s absence will surely shift dynamics, the spotlight now turns to India’s new-generation stars and seasoned players like Kohli, Bumrah, and Pant, who will aim to rise to the occasion. With Hazlewood and his compatriots gearing up, the Border-Gavaskar Trophy promises yet another thrilling chapter in their storied rivalry.
