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Xtra Time Web Desk: Former Australia all-rounder Shane Watson has downplayed the potential impact of Cheteshwar Pujara’s absence on India’s chances of clinching the Border-Gavaskar Trophy for the third consecutive time. Pujara, a key figure in India's historic series wins in 2018-19 and 2020-21, is unlikely to join the squad for the upcoming tour of Australia. The seasoned batter last featured in a Test during the World Test Championship final in June 2023.

While acknowledging Pujara's past heroics—where he scored 2,999 runs at an average of 38.44 in overseas Tests—Watson emphasized that India has the opportunity to adopt a more aggressive approach at No. 3. Shubman Gill, who has taken up the role, has scored 782 runs in 12 Tests, including three centuries, but his overseas numbers are modest, averaging just 19 in four Tests.

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“When you talk about Pujara, he just doesn't make mistakes,” Watson remarked. He expressed confidence that young players like Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal can apply pressure on the Australian bowling attack by playing aggressively.

Watson also stated that Australia must be at their best to challenge a confident Indian side, noting their recent strong performances in Australia. "India have the firepower to give Australia a huge challenge," he added.

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The Border-Gavaskar Trophy series begins on November 22 at Perth Stadium, marking the first five-Test series between the two nations in 33 years.