Indian cricketer Cheteshwar Pujara believes that the Indian Test team will benefit from the newly appointed head coach Rahul Dravid’s rich experience going forward in the format. India will play two Test matches against New Zealand, starting from November 25 in Kanpur.

Ravi Shastri’s tenure as the head coach ended at the conclusion of the T20 World Cup 2021 in the UAE. Rahul Dravid was the favourite to succeed him. It’s a win-win situation for Pujara whose game is somewhat similar to Rahul Dravid’s tight defensive technique.

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“After the WTC we were all hurt but we came back strongly in England and we played very good cricket. Now the team is back together, confident and new coach Rahul Bhai is there,” Pujara said in the virtual press conference.

“That will help most of the players, especially the young players who have worked with Rahul Bhai during the Under-19 and India A series.

“And even someone like us, who are experienced players. I have played with Rahul Bhai and worked with Rahul Bhai during the A series. All of us are looking for his guidance. The amount of experience he has as a player and coach will help the team,” he added.

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Pujara is named the vice-captain for the first Test. However, he feels that added responsibility is good but he would reach out to the juniors regardless of him being the vice-captain or not.

“Added responsibility can work in your favour as you can share the experience with youngsters. Even when I am not vice-captain, I try and share my experiences as much as I can and the ultimate focus is on the Indian team.”

Virat Kohli will return to captain the side in the second Test in Mumbai while Ajinkya Rahane will wear the captain’s blazer during the first Test.