Pujara’s Record Double Century Boosts Test Comeback Bid Ahead of England Series

Indian cricket veteran Cheteshwar Pujara has strengthened his case for a Test cricket return by notching up his 17th double century in first-class cricket during Saurashtra’s Ranji Trophy clash with Jharkhand in Rajkot.

𝗗𝗼𝘂𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗗𝗲𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗖𝗵𝗲𝘁𝗲𝘀𝗵𝘄𝗮𝗿 𝗣𝘂𝗷𝗮𝗿𝗮! 💯💯

A spectacular 2⃣0⃣0⃣ in Rajkot from the Saurashtra batter! 👏👏

Follow the match ▶️ https://t.co/xYOBkksyYt#RanjiTrophy | #SAUvJHA | @IDFCFIRSTBank | @saucricket | @cheteshwar1 pic.twitter.com/ofLZSf2qcl

— BCCI Domestic (@BCCIdomestic) January 7, 2024

This record-extending feat places him joint fourth on the list of most double centuries, alongside Herbert Sutcliffe and Mark Ramprakash. Pujara’s remarkable innings has surpassed VVS Laxman, securing him fourth position in the list of Indian batters with the most first-class runs, trailing only Sunil Gavaskar, Sachin Tendulkar, and Rahul Dravid.

With India set to face England in a five-match Test series starting January 25, Pujara’s double century serves as a significant statement of intent to the selectors. The announcement of the squad is imminent, and Pujara’s outstanding performance could play a pivotal role in his selection.

In other cricket news, the national selectors are facing a dilemma in choosing between Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli for the upcoming Afghanistan series. There is a possibility of both stalwarts being included in the squad, with IPL form likely to be a crucial factor for the T20 World Cup team selection. Chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar has engaged with the veterans, but external factors may lead to BCCI Secretary Jay Shah making the final decision after further discussions.