Indian cricketer Cheteshwar Pujara has added another milestone to his illustrious first-class career by surpassing England legend Herbert Sutcliffe in the list of players with the most double centuries in first-class cricket. During a Ranji Trophy Elite Group D match against Chhattisgarh, Pujara scored his 18th double ton, placing him fourth on the all-time list behind Don Bradman, Wally Hammond, and Elias Hendren. Despite a dip in his Test form, Pujara’s stellar first-class performances this year could bolster his case for selection in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
Pujara’s Record-Breaking First-Class Double Century Feat
Cheteshwar Pujara solidified his place in cricket history by scoring his 18th double century in first-class cricket, surpassing England legend Herbert Sutcliffe’s 17. His remarkable knock of 234 off 383 balls during the Elite Group D match against Chhattisgarh not only put him in fourth place for the most double centuries in first-class cricket, but also showcased his incredible ability to play marathon innings. This achievement adds another chapter to Pujara’s impressive cricketing journey, where his calm and determined batting style continues to shine.
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Pujara’s consistency in first-class cricket this year is hard to ignore. He has amassed 1,580 runs in 25 innings with an average of 68.69, including six centuries. This remarkable form, combined with his experience in high-pressure games like the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, could make him a valuable asset for the upcoming series against Australia. His recent performance strengthens his case for a potential return to the Indian Test squad.
Competition for Middle-Order Spots in Indian Test Squad
Pujara’s potential comeback is challenged by the emergence of younger talents like Shubman Gill and Sarfaraz Khan, both of whom have seized opportunities in the middle order. Gill has impressed at number three, where Pujara once thrived, amassing 782 runs in 12 matches this year, with three centuries. His ability to maintain a steady strike rate while playing crucial knocks for India makes him a formidable contender for the spot Pujara once held.
Sarfaraz Khan has also made his mark, scoring 350 runs in just four Tests with an impressive average of 58.33. His versatility, having batted in various middle-order positions, further complicates Pujara’s path back into the team. The selectors will have to weigh Pujara’s vast experience and recent domestic form against the youthful exuberance and consistent performances of players like Gill and Sarfaraz.
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