Cheteshwar Pujara open to coaching role after retirement from cricket
What's the story
Former Indian batter Cheteshwar Pujara has expressed his willingness to take up a coaching role or work at the BCCI's Centre of Excellence, often referred to as the National Cricket Academy (NCA), in the future. The announcement comes days after he retired from all forms of cricket. Pujara, who has had a stellar 103-Test career with over 7,000 runs, said he would be happy to contribute to Indian cricket in any way possible.
Career transition
'I'll be more than happy to contribute...'
Speaking to PTI, Pujara said, "I've enjoyed the broadcasting work for sure. So, I'll definitely continue doing that." He added he hasn't given it much thought but is open to opportunities as they arise. "I've mentioned this earlier also that I would like to stay attached to the game. So, in whatever manner I can contribute to Indian cricket, I'll be more than happy," he said.
Career reflection
'Classical batting has a place in modern-day cricket'
Pujara, who was a perfect fit at No. 3 for both anchoring and accelerating innings, reflected on his glorious Test career. He also spoke about the importance of classical batting in modern-day cricket. "I don't think I am sad. I still feel that even in the current era, there is scope for a classical Test match player," he said, reflecting on the state of modern-day cricket.
Runs
Second-most Test runs at No. 3 for India
One of the most technically sound players, Pujara became the successor Rahul Dravid, known as The Wall. Pujara hammered 6,529 runs batting at No. 3 with an average of 44.41. His tally includes 18 tons and 32 half-centuries. Pujara is only behind the great Dravid, who slammed 10,501 Test runs at this position. No other Indian owns over 3,000 Test runs at No. 3.
Guidance
Advice to young players
Pujara advised young players to consider playing every format of the game as more white-ball cricket is being played. He explained that players are selected in the Test squad based on their IPL or ODI performances, which makes their game more aggressive. He also referred to Abhimanyu Easwaran and Karun Nair, who got selected after performing well in Ranji Trophy, showing there is still hope for classical Test match batting.
Legacy
A look at his glorious career
Pujara, who retired after playing 103 Tests, scored over 7,195 runs at an average of 43.60. He scored 19 centuries and 35 half-centuries in his career. The former top-order batter was known for tiring the opposition bowlers out during his time on the field. Notably, Pujara remains the only Indian batter to face more than 500 balls in a single Test innings (525 deliveries against Australia in Ranchi in 2017).