While whispers of his Test exile echoed across the cricketing landscape, Cheteshwar Pujara roared back in emphatic fashion. The seasoned batsman carved an unbeaten 157, guiding defending champions Saurashtra to a commanding 406/4 on Day 2 of their Ranji Trophy opener against Jharkhand. With Jharkhand bundled out for a meager 142, this was a ruthless display of dominance, leaving the visiting team staring at a potential innings defeat.
Pujara, overlooked for the upcoming South Africa series, channeled his frustration into a masterclass of composure and control. He occupied the crease for a mammoth 239 deliveries, finding gaps and punishing loose deliveries with his trademark flicks and drives. His innings, laced with 19 boundaries, was a symphony of experience and resilience, a testament to his unwavering dedication to the game.
While Pujara anchored the innings, Saurashtra received valuable contributions from other stalwarts. Openers Harvik Desai (85) and Sheldon Jackson (54) laid a solid foundation with a 108-run partnership. Arpit Vasavada chipped in with a gritty 68, forging a crucial 146-run stand with Pujara that solidified Saurashtra’s grip on the contest.
Jharkhand’s bowling attack, on the other hand, appeared hapless against the onslaught. All six bowlers leaked runs, failing to find any kind of rhythm or penetration. With Saurashtra already 264 runs ahead and Jaydev Unadkat, the Indian pacer, leading the bowling attack, an innings victory and a bonus point seem well within reach for the defending champions.
Pujara’s statement century served as a potent reminder of his class and unwavering hunger for runs. This dominant performance not only boosted Saurashtra’s title quest but also sent a powerful message to the national selectors – that the fire within the veteran batsman burns bright, and his hunger for runs remains insatiable.
