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Cheteshwar Pujara's name shines brightly with a constellation of achievements that reflect his skill, dedication, and longevity. With an illustrious career spanning over a decade, Pujara has etched his mark in the annals of Indian cricket history. Let's delve into 10 of his remarkable records that define his mastery in the longest format of the game.
Cheteshwar Pujara's legacy is etched in runs. His 7021 runs in Test cricket place him eighth on the list of highest run-scorers for India in the format. His 19 Test centuries stand as the seventh most by an Indian batsman, underlining his role as a prolific run-getter.
Cheteshwar Pujara's journey began in 2010, and since then, he has faced a staggering 15,797 balls in his 99 Test matches. Only four players - Joe Root, Alastair Cook, Azhar Ali, and Steve Smith - have faced more deliveries in Test cricket since Pujara's debut. His ability to tire out bowlers and anchor the innings remains his hallmark.
The frequency at which Cheteshwar Pujara has been dismissed is a testament to his remarkable resilience. In his 99 Test matches, he has been dismissed once every 99.4 deliveries, placing him among the top players who have featured in at least 50 Tests since his debut. Steve Smith leads this list, being dismissed every 114.6 balls.
Pujara's role in India's historic Test series victory in Australia during the 2018/19 tour was pivotal. His resolute batting wore down the Australian bowlers as he not only scored 521 runs in four Tests but also batted out an incredible 1258 balls. This performance earned him the well-deserved Man of the Series award.
Cheteshwar Pujara joined an elite club of Indian batsmen who have "carried the bat through" a Test innings. He accomplished this rare feat against Sri Lanka in Colombo in 2015, a testament to his ability to stand firm against all odds.
In a quirk of top-order batting and the opposition's swift dismissal, Pujara stands as one of the three Indian players to bat on all five days of a single Test match. This feat was achieved during India's Test against Sri Lanka in Kolkata in 2017.
Pujara's innings of 525 balls faced against Australia in the 2017 Ranchi Test remains unmatched by any Indian player in an innings in Test cricket. This impressive feat surpassed Rahul Dravid's record of facing 495 balls against Pakistan in Rawalpindi in 2003/04.
Pujara's average of 56.90 in 54 Tests played in Asia is a testament to his mastery in conditions that challenge even the best. His average surpasses the likes of cricketing stalwarts such as Mahela Jayawardene, Sachin Tendulkar, Virat Kohli, and more.
Pujara's prowess against spin bowling is an asset that sets him apart. With an average of 65.96 against spinners in Test cricket, he outperforms even the likes of Steve Smith, Joe Root, and Virat Kohli in terms of average runs against spin.
The pinnacle of Pujara's record is his incredible durability, showcased by becoming the 13th Indian player to feature in 100 Test matches. This remarkable achievement was acknowledged by cricketing legend Sunil Gavaskar, who presented Pujara with a special cap
Cheteshwar Pujara's journey through Test cricket is defined not only by numbers but by the impact he has had on the game itself. With his unwavering resolve, exceptional technique, and indomitable spirit, he has become an emblem of Test cricket's enduring allure.
FAQs
How many balls has Pujara faced in Test cricket since his debut?
Since his Test debut in 2010, Cheteshwar Pujara has faced a remarkable 15,797 balls in his 99 Test matches.
What is Pujara's average frequency of dismissal in Tests?
In his 99 Test matches, he has been dismissed once every 99.4 deliveries, showcasing his ability to stay at the crease and weather tough situations.
