With the Border-Gavaskar Trophy around the corner, one major question looms over India’s squad selection: Will India miss Cheteshwar Pujara? The veteran batter, who was instrumental in India’s historic series wins in Australia in 2018-19 and 2020-21, is unlikely to be picked for the upcoming tour. Pujara hasn’t played for India since the World Test Championship (WTC) final in June 2023.
Australia’s legendary all-rounder Shane Watson recently addressed this issue, stating that India’s current batting depth could compensate for Pujara’s absence. Watson emphasised that while Pujara’s patient style worked in previous tours, India could thrive without him by employing aggressive strategies.
Shane Watson’s Perspective on Pujara’s Absence
Shane Robert Watson, born on June 17, 1981, is an Australian cricket coach, commentator, and former cricketer.
He played for and occasionally captained the Australian national cricket team from 2002 to 2016.
Watson was an all-rounder, known for his right-handed batting and right-arm fast-medium bowling.
He was ranked as the world’s top all-rounder in Twenty20 Internationals (T20I) for 150 weeks, including a record-breaking 120 consecutive weeks between October 2011 and January 2014.
Kane Williamson Absent and New Zealand announce Test Squad for India Series
Watson was the last player to retire from Australia’s golden era in the early 2000s.
Speaking to PTI, Watson highlighted Pujara’s impeccable ability to minimise mistakes, but he also noted that India now has batsmen capable of filling his void.
“Pujara just doesn’t make mistakes, but players like Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill have shown they can score quickly without offering chances,” Watson said.
He believes India’s aggressive approach, led by this new crop of batters, could put pressure on Australia’s bowlers, keeping the game moving and maintaining India’s momentum.
India’s Batting Depth Without Pujara
Shubman Gill, who has often been deployed at Pujara’s usual No. 3 position, has already made the spot his own, amassing 782 runs in 12 Tests, including three centuries.
However, his overseas record remains a concern, with just 119 runs in four Tests outside India.
Watson, however, remains confident in India’s overall firepower. “India have the talent to challenge Australia at home, and the confidence from their last tour will be crucial,” he added.
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