As a result of his declining performance, the Indian batting star Cheteshwar Pujara was left from the squad that will compete in the home Test series against Sri Lanka earlier this year. The senior player, on the other hand, was able to make a comeback for the rescheduled fifth Test against England after amassing a significant number of runs in both the domestic circuit and the County cricket circuit. Former Indian batter Mohammed Kaif heaped appreciation on Pujara, stating that the veteran has set an example for future players as he did not give up hope after being pulled from the team. Pujara was praised by Kaif as having set an example for young players.
According to Mohammed Kaif, the selectors made a mistake by omitting Pujara, and the batter’s performances forced them to concede defeat.
“Because of the way he scored runs despite being dropped, he has established himself as a role model for younger players who are interested in making a comeback.
He went to play cricket for his county and promptly made century in both 50-over and four-day contests, which resulted in the selectors calling him back into the national team.
He forced the selectors to give up their positions in front of him “During an interaction that was organised by Sony Sports Network, Kaif shared his thoughts with NDTV.
Kaif also said that the Indian team needs players like Pujara who can bat on pace as well as spin-friendly tracks. She added that age is just a number for a player of his calibre and that the Indian team needs guys like Pujara who can bat on pace and spin-friendly tracks.
“Cricket has no bearing on one’s age in any way. This is a game of strategy and skill. This is not football, in which players are required to continuously run up and down the field throughout the game.
In point of fact, being older is a benefit. Experience is the best teacher, and it leads to growth. Pujara, Kohli, and Rohit are three exemplary players in this regard. The format known as the test match in cricket is one that places a premium on skill, as it requires players to compete for several days straight.
You can only improve with practise and experience, and you need guys who can bat on turning tracks as well as seaming tracks. Pujara is a prime example, “he noted.
Beginning on Wednesday, December 14, a two-match Test series between India and Bangladesh is scheduled to get underway.
Due to a thumb injury, Rohit Sharma, the captain of India, was unable to participate in the first game.
In his absence, KL Rahul will take charge of the squad, and Pujara will serve as the team’s deputy captain.