In the annals of Indian cricket, few players have embodied resilience, grit, and selflessness as profoundly as Cheteshwar Pujara. Recently, former India off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin sparked a conversation that has reignited appreciation for Pujara’s monumental contributions to Indian Test cricket. Speaking on his YouTube channel Ash Ki Baat, Ashwin boldly claimed that Pujara’s role at the No. 3 position was instrumental in enabling Virat Kohli to amass many of his Test runs. This statement not only underscores Pujara’s critical yet often overlooked impact but also highlights the intricate dynamics of team synergy in cricket. As Pujara announced his retirement from all formats of the game, it’s an opportune moment to reflect on his legacy, his partnerships with Kohli, and why his contributions deserve to be celebrated on par with modern Indian cricket giants like Kohli and Rohit Sharma.
The Backbone of India’s Test Batting
Cheteshwar Pujara’s Test career, spanning 103 matches, is a testament to his endurance and technical prowess. With 7,195 runs at an average of 43.60, Pujara carved out a reputation as one of India’s most reliable batsmen, particularly in the longest format of the game. His ability to anchor innings, absorb pressure, and grind out runs in challenging conditions made him the backbone of India’s batting line-up for over a decade. Positioned at No. 3—a role that demands both defensive solidity and the ability to set up the innings—Pujara was often the shield that protected India’s middle order, allowing players like Kohli to play with greater freedom.
Pujara’s approach was not flashy. He didn’t rely on audacious strokeplay or aggressive intent, unlike some of his contemporaries. Instead, his game was built on patience, discipline, and an almost meditative focus. In an era increasingly dominated by fast-paced T20 cricket, Pujara’s steadfast adherence to the art of Test batting was both an anomaly and a treasure. His ability to bat for long periods, often in grueling conditions, frustrated opposition bowlers and provided India with a platform to build substantial totals.
Ashwin, in his heartfelt tribute, emphasized that Pujara’s contributions were no less significant than those of Kohli or Rohit. “What did Cheteshwar Pujara stand for in Indian cricket? I said his contributions are no less than Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma,” Ashwin remarked. This statement is a powerful acknowledgment of Pujara’s role as a team player whose impact transcended individual statistics. While Kohli’s flamboyant cover drives and Rohit’s effortless six-hitting often stole the spotlight, Pujara’s quiet resilience laid the foundation for many of India’s Test triumphs.
The Pujara-Kohli Partnership: A Symbiotic Bond
One of the most compelling aspects of Ashwin’s commentary is his assertion that Pujara played a pivotal role in Kohli’s Test success. The numbers back this claim. Together, Pujara and Kohli forged one of India’s most prolific batting partnerships in Test cricket, amassing 3,438 runs at an average of 42.4. Their alliance produced 17 fifty-plus stands and seven century-plus partnerships, including two monumental stands exceeding 200 runs: a 222-run partnership against South Africa in 2013 and a 226-run stand against England in 2016.
These partnerships were not just about accumulating runs; they were about complementing each other’s strengths. Pujara’s dogged determination and ability to wear down bowling attacks created a stable platform for Kohli to unleash his aggressive, run-hungry style. While Pujara absorbed pressure and blunted the opposition’s new-ball threat, Kohli capitalized on the softened conditions to dominate attacks with his trademark flair. This synergy was particularly evident in India’s overseas Test campaigns, where batting conditions were often hostile, and Pujara’s ability to occupy the crease allowed Kohli to play with confidence.
The 2013 South Africa series is a prime example. In the Johannesburg Test, India faced a formidable South African pace attack led by Dale Steyn and Morne Morkel. Pujara’s resolute 153, combined with Kohli’s 119, resulted in a 222-run partnership that helped India draw the match and gain crucial momentum in the series. Similarly, the 2016 England series saw the duo combine for a 226-run stand in Visakhapatnam, setting the tone for India’s dominance in the series. These partnerships were not just statistical milestones; they were turning points that shaped India’s fortunes in Test cricket.
Ashwin’s observation that “Pujara’s contribution at No. 3, believe it or not, was instrumental in helping Virat Kohli also make a lot of his runs” highlights the selfless nature of Pujara’s game. By shielding Kohli from the new ball and tiring out bowlers, Pujara created the conditions for Kohli to thrive. This dynamic is a reminder that cricket, at its core, is a team sport where individual brilliance often depends on collective effort.
The Understated Hero
Despite his monumental contributions, Pujara rarely received the adulation reserved for players like Kohli or Rohit. As Ashwin pointed out, “Not every cricketer gets the attention, but that does not mean their contribution is any less.” In a cricketing landscape increasingly driven by glamour and marketability, Pujara’s understated style often flew under the radar. His methodical approach, while invaluable in Test cricket, didn’t lend itself to the highlight reels that dominate modern media. Yet, his impact was undeniable.
Pujara’s role extended beyond his partnerships with Kohli. He was a cornerstone of India’s Test batting during a transitional phase when the team moved from the era of Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, and VVS Laxman to a new generation of stars. His ability to bat time and anchor innings was particularly crucial in overseas conditions, where India historically struggled. The 2018-19 Australia tour, where India secured a historic series win, showcased Pujara at his best. His marathon knocks—including a 521-ball 193 in Sydney—wore down Australia’s bowlers and set up India’s dominance. Kohli, as captain, often credited Pujara’s resilience for enabling the team to compete effectively abroad.
Pujara’s mental fortitude was another hallmark of his career. He faced relentless scrutiny for his slow scoring rate and perceived inability to adapt to shorter formats. Yet, he remained unfazed, focusing on his strengths and delivering when it mattered most. His 19 Test centuries, including three double hundreds, are a testament to his ability to convert starts into substantial scores. In an age where instant gratification often overshadows perseverance, Pujara’s career is a reminder of the value of grit and determination.
A Legacy Beyond Numbers
As Pujara joins Ashwin in retirement from international cricket, and with Kohli and Rohit stepping away from Tests while continuing in ODIs, Indian cricket stands at a crossroads. The quartet of Ashwin, Pujara, Kohli, and Rohit defined an era of Indian Test cricket that saw unprecedented success, including series wins in Australia and consistent performances at home. While Kohli and Rohit’s contributions have been widely celebrated, Ashwin’s comments serve as a timely reminder to acknowledge Pujara’s role in this golden period.
Pujara’s legacy is not just in his runs or partnerships but in the values he embodied: discipline, resilience, and selflessness. He was the anchor who stabilized India’s batting, the silent warrior who fought battles that often went unnoticed. His ability to put the team’s needs above personal glory made him a true team player, and Ashwin’s tribute rightly places him alongside India’s modern greats.
The Road Ahead for Indian Cricket
As Indian cricket moves forward, the absence of stalwarts like Pujara and Ashwin in Tests will leave a void. The next generation—players like Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Rishabh Pant—will need to step up to fill the gap. While these young stars bring dynamism and flair, they would do well to emulate Pujara’s work ethic and commitment to the team cause. The art of Test batting, which Pujara mastered, remains a critical component of success in the longest format, and his approach can serve as a blueprint for aspiring cricketers.
Ashwin’s remarks also prompt a broader reflection on how cricketing contributions are evaluated. In an era dominated by T20 leagues and instant fame, players like Pujara, who prioritize substance over style, risk being undervalued. Yet, their impact is often the difference between victory and defeat. By highlighting Pujara’s role in Kohli’s success, Ashwin has sparked a conversation about recognizing the unsung heroes of the game—those who toil in the shadows to enable others to shine.
In Summary
Cheteshwar Pujara’s retirement marks the end of an era in Indian cricket, but his legacy will endure. His contributions at No. 3, his partnerships with Kohli, and his unwavering commitment to Test cricket have left an indelible mark. Ashwin’s tribute is a fitting acknowledgment of a player whose value went beyond statistics. As Indian cricket celebrates its modern icons, it must also honor players like Pujara, whose quiet resilience and selfless dedication were the bedrock of the team’s success. In the story of Indian Test cricket, Pujara will forever be remembered as the unsung hero who helped Virat Kohli—and India—scale new heights.
