Former Australian captain Tim Paine recently reflected on Cheteshwar Pujara’s pivotal role in India’s unforgettable 2020-21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy win. Paine emphasized that Pujara’s resilience and endurance were the backbone of India’s success, even more influential than Rishabh Pant’s explosive performances.
After India suffered a crushing defeat in Adelaide, they faced the remainder of the series without key players, including captain Virat Kohli. Despite the setbacks, they pulled off an incredible 2-1 series victory, a comeback celebrated worldwide. While Pant’s aggressive innings, especially his unbeaten 89 in the iconic Gabba Test, captured much attention, Paine believes that the real hero was Pujara, who played a quieter yet instrumental role.
“Many remember Rishabh Pant’s explosive innings, but it was Pujara who really won them the series,” Tim Paine shared on The Grade Cricketer podcast. “He wore us down, particularly our fast bowlers, absorbing hit after hit and getting back up each time. That kind of grit still has a place in Test cricket.”
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Throughout the series, Rishabh Pant amassed 274 runs at a remarkable average of 68.50, yet Pujara’s contribution was no less significant, facing an astounding 928 balls over the four Tests. His defining moments came in the last two games. In Sydney, Pant’s brisk 97 captured the spotlight, but it was Pujara’s steady 205-ball 77 that laid the groundwork.
Then, in the series decider in Brisbane, Pujara’s disciplined 211-ball 56 further exhausted Australia’s bowlers, setting up Pant’s match-winning knock. Pujara’s innings were characterized by his fearless approach, repeatedly taking body blows from the Aussie bowlers but maintaining focus. His style may be less flashy, but his fortitude helped India weather intense sessions and frustrate Australia’s attack.
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Looking ahead to the 2024–25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, Paine expressed concern about India’s bowling lineup, particularly with the absence of Mohammed Shami due to injury. “Shami’s absence will make a huge difference. Bumrah is under a lot of pressure, and if he were to get injured, that would be a serious setback,” Tim Paine remarked, highlighting the challenge India may face in the upcoming series.
