While India batsman Cheteshwar Puajara was criticized heavily for his poor performances recently, former India cricketer Sanjay Bangar backed him and spoke about Pujara's importance in this current Indian team.
Even though the Rajkot-based cricketer has struggled to get big runs, Bangar feels approval and confidence from the team management plays a vital role in easing some pressure off Pujara’s mind.
“We all know what sort of a game plan he has and his main priority is to tire the bowlers out. For somebody like a Pujara, if there is acceptance for what he does from the change room, then it takes a huge pressure off his shoulders,” Bangar said on Brad Hogg’s YouTube channel.
“Because he knows that okay, I can start slow, my strike rate can be a bit slower, maybe at certain times the non-striker might have to have long periods of inactivity, but if the team is okay with it, it gives a great sort of a comfort,” the former all-rounder added.
Australia's Brad Hogg also admitted that Pujara is a key player in India’s Test setup despite his poor form.
“Without a doubt, you think of all the major triumphs that we've had as an Indian team overseas. I have a feeling that Pujara's contribution, whether they are taken positively or negatively, always hinges on the outcome of the result but his value to the team is immense and he's an invaluable asset to the team,” the 48-year-old said.
Team India after going 1-0 up in this ongoing five-match Test series against hosts, will be back on the field as England and India will be locking horns in the third Test match scheduled to be played at Headingley in Leeds from 25 August.
