Cheteshwar Pujara is considered one of the finest Test batsmen of his generation. The Indian cricketer has been a mainstay of the Test team's batting lineup for a long time now. He is known for his resolute defense, excellent technique, and an unflappable temperament.
In this article, we will take a look at Pujara's top 5 innings in Test cricket.
1. 153* against South Africa in Johannesburg, 2018
Pujara's unbeaten 153 against South Africa in Johannesburg in 2018 is widely considered as his best innings in Test cricket. India was struggling at 7/2 in the first innings and were in danger of being bowled out cheaply. However, Pujara dug in and produced a masterclass of batting on a challenging pitch. He faced 265 deliveries and scored 153 runs, hitting 23 boundaries in the process. Pujara's innings helped India post a respectable total of 307 in the first innings, which ultimately proved to be decisive as India went on to win the Test match.
2. 202 against Australia in Ranchi, 2017
Pujara's marathon knock of 202 against Australia in Ranchi in 2017 is another memorable innings. India was under pressure in the third Test of the series, having conceded a lead in the first innings. However, Pujara showed remarkable resilience and batted for almost 11 hours to help India secure a draw. He faced 525 deliveries and hit 21 boundaries and two sixes. Pujara's innings was crucial in helping India avoid a defeat and keep the series alive.
3. 123 against Australia in Adelaide, 2018
Pujara's gritty knock of 123 against Australia in Adelaide in 2018 is another memorable innings. India was in trouble in the first innings, having lost two early wickets. However, Pujara once again showed his class and batted with great determination to score a century. He faced 246 deliveries and hit seven boundaries in his innings. Pujara's innings helped India post a competitive total of 250 in the first innings, which proved to be enough as India won the Test match by 31 runs.
4. 145 against Sri Lanka in Colombo, 2015
Pujara's innings of 145 against Sri Lanka in Colombo in 2015 is another top-class performance. India was in trouble in the first innings, having lost three wickets for just 119 runs. However, Pujara once again showed his mettle and scored a brilliant century. He faced 289 deliveries and hit 14 boundaries in his innings. Pujara's innings helped India post a total of 312 in the first innings, which proved to be decisive as India went on to win the Test match by 117 runs.
5. 133 against Sri Lanka in Galle, 2017
Pujara's innings of 133 against Sri Lanka in Galle in 2017 is another memorable performance. India was in a comfortable position in the first innings, having scored 280 runs for the loss of three wickets. However, Pujara batted with great responsibility and scored a brilliant century. He faced 232 deliveries and hit 13 boundaries in his innings. Pujara's innings helped India post a huge total of 600 in the first innings, which ultimately proved to be too much for Sri Lanka to chase down.
In conclusion, Cheteshwar Pujara has played many memorable innings in Test cricket. However, the five innings mentioned above stand out as his best performances. These innings highlight Pujara's remarkable resilience, technical prowess, and an unflappable temperament, making him one of the finest test batsman.
