Cheteshwar Pujara has been in red-hot form in the domestic cricket circuit. However, calamity has struck. Just days ahead of the India squad announcement, the veteran batter faltered in the Ranji Trophy.
In the ongoing low-scoring Maharashtra vs Saurashtra match, Pujara was dismissed for 3 in the first and registered a duck (0) in the second inning.
With India’s ongoing confusion in the middle order, Pujara is a strong contender to fight for a spot in the team. Ravindra Jadeja is set to be a long term absentee in the team. On the KL Rahul is also injured which has prompted Rajat Patidar and Sarfaraz Khan to get their chance in the team.
But with the middle order constantly faltering, it is a perfect opportunity for Pujara to make a comeback in the team. Though Pujara has been brilliant in the ongoing Ranji Trophy season, his latest outing will surely raise questions for the selectors in the team.
Shreyas Iyer has failed to score runs in the middle, which warrants a senior taking up the mettle to score runs for India. In the absence of the preferred batters, Pujara’s inclusion in the team is needed. However, the last time, despite his bright form, Pujara has been overlooked.
The BCCI Selection Committee decided to give a chance to players like Sarfaraz Khan and Rajat Patidar who have been awaiting their maiden call up in the team.
Editors pick
