Cheteshwar Pujara was dropped from the Indian Test team after the WTC final in 2023.
Team India won the last Test series on English soil in 2021-22. But the situation is a lot different this time around as they will enter the series on the back of a humiliating 0-3 whitewash in a home Test series against New Zealand, followed by the BGT 2024/25 debacle Down Under.
The current Indian batting lineup has come under a lot of scrutiny after having succumbed against the Kiwi spinners and Australian pacers.
With the fast-approaching England tour, a lot of experts and former cricketers are advocating for seasoned campaigner Cheteshwar Pujara’s inclusion in the Indian Test team.
When India kicked off their WTC 2023-25 cycle with the tour of West Indies, the selectors took a big step by dropping Pujara from the squad. Instead, Shubman Gill was asked to bat at No. 3, which was Pujara’s usual spot over the last decade.
As India’s Test side is going through a horror run lately, is the door open for Pujara’s comeback in England? The veteran batter himself believes so.
Pujara, who has the experience of 103 Tests, said he obviously feels disappointed not to be a part of the Test side anymore despite his towering achievements but is ready to make a difference if given another chance.
"When one has been successful at the highest level and played more than 100 Test matches and are still not a part of the team, you carry on the hard work that has been the reason behind getting the success. Not getting the opportunity is a big disappointment, but I keep myself ready and motivated because of my love for this game. And out of that love, I keep myself close to the game and routine without expecting much, and through any opportunity I get, be it domestic or county," Pujara said on Backstage with Boria.
After the back-to-back series defeats against New Zealand and Australia, a few changes are on the cards as far as the Indian Test team is concerned.
"Yes, of course, if the team needs and I get the opportunity, I am prepared from my end. I have been working on my physical fitness, performing well both domestically and internationally.
"Team India has been quite competitive, but has not won a series in England for around 20 years now, so given an opportunity, I would like to give the best from my end and grab the opportunity if the team needs me. This would be the perfect opportunity to contribute when a win is much needed in England," Pujara added.
India suffered a 1-3 defeat on the tour of Australia, featuring five Tests. Pujara, who played a key role in India’s two series BGT triumphs on Australian soil, believes things could have been different if he was part of the squad.
"Of course. As a player, I have been successful playing in Australia before and have a good record. This makes a player confident and well-prepared for what to expect from the opposition. There is always a better chance to succeed when the scenario is such," he remarked.