Cricketer turned commentator Aakash Chopra talked about India’s Test specialist batsman Cheteshwar Pujara. Also, Chopra elaborated the reason behind Pujara’s struggle against Fast bowlers. Notably, Cheteshwar played two sensational knocks in the recent Australia tour at Sydney and Brisbane. Pujara’s innings helped team India make history.
However, Pujara has seen a dip in his form since the start of the first World Test Championship cycle. Also, the average of 33-year-old was below 30 in the 2019-2021 WTC cycle.
In the ESPNCricinfo segment, the former Indian opener elaborated that Cheteshwar Pujara’s less foot movement creates trouble for him. Also, Chopra said Pujara holds the bat very close to the bottom handle which reduces bat-swing. Aakash Chopra stated:
“He (Cheteshwar Pujara) seems to be moving his feet a lot less against pace than before, and that has resulted in fewer strokes. Pujara doesn’t have a high backlift, and he holds the bat near the bottom of the handle, which reduces the bat-swing significantly.
“That means his stroke-making needs to start with getting the body into the right position to execute shots. The front foot hasn’t been going down the pitch, and the back foot hasn’t been going inside the box either.”
I’m not even suggesting entertaining the thought of replacing Pujara: Aakash Chopra
After Cheteshwar Pujara’s downfall in his Test career especially in World Test Championship, there have been reports which suggest India might drop him. Also, there are rumors that players like Hanuma Vihari or KL Rahul are top contenders to replace Pujara.
However, Aakash Chopra feels that India shouldn’t drop the Test specialist and should continue with him. Also, Chopra said India needs Pujara as he has a brilliant ability to play the role of anchor.
“Let me make it very clear that I’m not even suggesting entertaining the thought of replacing Pujara for the England series, for India need an anchor in Pujara for the other batters to flourish.”
Meanwhile, the Indian Test team is currently playing a practice game against the County Championship XI at Durham. The Asian Giants have lost a couple of early wickets and will hope to bounce back.
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