India Test Match : It’s not every day that a cricketer gets the honor of playing in 100 Test matches for their country. Therefore, when Cheteshwar Pujara was named in the playing XI for the second Test against Australia in Chennai, it was a significant milestone in his career. He became the twelfth Indian player and the 153rd overall to feature in 100 Test matches.
However, it was not just the Indian cricket fans who were excited about the occasion; it was also the former Indian batting great Sunil Gavaskar, who has always been a great admirer of Pujara’s style of play. Gavaskar was the guest of honor at the start of the second Test match and felicitated Pujara for achieving this significant milestone.
Presentation of the Cap ( India Test Match )
Gavaskar presented Pujara with a special cap to commemorate his 100th Test match. The cap had the Indian flag embroidered on it, symbolizing Pujara’s dedication and contribution to the Indian cricket team.
Gavaskar’s Speech ( India Test Match )
Gavaskar then went on to deliver a heartfelt speech, praising Pujara for his contribution to the Indian cricket team. He stated that when one is growing up, playing cricket, the ultimate dream is to play for the Indian cricket team. Gavaskar emphasized that Pujara has worked hard, remained focused, and continued to have self-belief throughout his career, which has resulted in him achieving this remarkable milestone.
Gavaskar went on to add that Pujara has been a warrior on the field, facing many blows from the opposition, but always getting back up and fighting back. He has been instrumental in winning many matches for India, including two Border-Gavaskar Trophy triumphs against Australia Down Under.
In his speech, Gavaskar also praised Pujara’s work ethic, determination, and grit. He stated that Pujara has always put his body on the line for the team and has become a role model for what hard work, self-belief, and dreams can achieve.
Gavaskar’s Hope ( India Test Match )
Gavaskar expressed his desire that Pujara would become the first Indian to score a century in his 100th Test match. He hoped that Pujara would lay the foundation for another Indian victory against Australia.
Pujara’s Achievements ( India Test Match )
Since making his debut in 2010, Pujara has been an integral part of the Indian cricket team. He has scored 7021 runs at an average of 44.15, including 19 centuries and 34 half-centuries, with a best score of an unbeaten 206. Pujara has played a crucial role in several memorable victories for India, both at home and abroad.
In his 100th Test match, Pujara will aim to make it a memorable occasion by scoring a big hundred and helping India win the Test match. Although he scored only seven runs in the first Test, Pujara is known for his resilience and is sure to bounce back and make a significant contribution in the second Test.
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Conclusion
Pujara’s achievement of playing 100 Test matches is a significant milestone in his career. He has become an integral part of the Indian cricket team, and his contribution has been instrumental in many victories for the country. Gavaskar’s words of praise and encouragement have further boosted Pujara’s confidence, and he will undoubtedly be aiming to make his 100th Test match a memorable one. Cricket fans around the world will be eagerly watching to see what Pujara has in store for his 100th Test match.