Xtra Time Web Desk: Cheteshwar Pujara, showcased his class with a fine century in the Ranji Trophy match against Jharkhand at the Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium in Rajkot on Saturday. It could not have been a better timing for the 35-year-old batter, to score a hundred just a day ahead of the selectors picking the squad for the first two test matches against England.
Pujara’s sublime century took Saurashtra to a commanding position after dismissing Jharkhand for just 142 runs. The veteran batter, hitting 12 boundaries, not only reached the triple-digit mark but extended his innings to an impressive 157 off 237 balls by stumps, including 19 fours. Partnering with Arpit Vasavada (68), Pujara contributed to a crucial 146-run stand for the fourth wicket, putting Saurashtra on top.
Despite consistent performances for Saurashtra, Pujara’s recent dip in form in international cricket led to his exclusion from India’s Test team. With the BCCI yet to announce the Test squad for the England Test series, Pujara aims to make a comeback, underlining his determination through a stellar performance in the Ranji Trophy.