Cheteshwar Pujara happy to make dad proud with match-winning knock in Adelaide
Cheteshwar Pujara has always been a serious student of the game who is constantly on a mission to hone his skills and take himself to one level up every time he plays for India.
It is this quality of him which makes Pujara the most likely troubleshooter for India in Test cricket.
Pujara's class and composure was on ample display during the first Test against Australia. In the first innings, Pujara defied Australia's bowling attack and withstood stifling conditions to slam a hundred on the opening day of the Adelaide Test.
His fine knock of 123 off 246 balls helped India put up a fighting total of 250 which eventually gave them a lead of 15 runs going into the second innings. Pujara's knock was the only bright moment for the visitors.
He once again came to India's rescue during the second innings and played a calm innings of 71 runs which played a pivotal role in helping India set a 323-run target for Australia - something which proved just enough for the visitors to take a 1-0 lead in the four-match series.
Pujara, who was adjudged the Man of the Match, said his preparation prior to the series helped him assess the pitch better.
"Most important thing for me was the preparation. When I was back home, I knew what to expect from Australian pitches," Pujara said at the post-match presentation.
"The hundred was special. Ultimately winning the Test, credit goes to the bowlers. Getting a 15-run lead was a psychological advantage. Self-belief from the teammates was what made it possible," he added.
Pujara, however, reiterated that India have a lot to improve in their batting in the upcoming Test matches.
"Always back my ability, have got enough experience playing for the Indian team. As a batting unit, we have a lot to improve on. We learn from our mistakes, and played much better in the second innings," he said.
Pujara also thanked his father for coaching him and said this knock will surely make him proud.
"It means a lot, he'll be a proud father. He's someone who started coaching me when I was 8 years. I'd like to thank him for all his support throughout my career," he concluded.
