Sourav Ganguly backs Pujara to bat at No. 3 in tests . File Pic[/caption]Internet Desk: Former India captain Sourav Ganguly has backed Cheteswar Pujara to bat at No. 3 in tests for India. According to Ganguly, Pujara is the ideal No. 3 batsman in the longer format. Pujara on Friday smashed his maiden hundred at his home ground against England. It was all the more special for him as he reached the milestone in front of his father and family members including his wife Puja.
He was dismissed by Ben Stokes for 124 runs. This was his second successive hundred and seventh at home.
According to Sourav, “I am very happy to see him scoring his first hundred at his home ground. It is a wonderful achievement. He knew the conditions well and utilized it.”
Ganguly was also amazed to see Pujara's dedication and work ethics. “He does not get a chance in the ODI’s and T20’s. So for him performing well in tests is prime target. What I like the most about him is his ability to stay grounded and remain humble. He stays away from the media and is not after endorsing brands. I am sure both Kumble and Kohli know what he is capable of,” said Sourav to Sony ESPN.
Pujara did have luck going his way. He was peppered with some short bowling by England bowlers particularly Chris Woakes. But that did not perturb him as he kept on concentrating his innings.
“Every great batsmen like Sachin Tendulkar, Brian Lara, Steve Waugh had a problem with short stuff. Chris Woakes need not have to talk much on short ball. I am impressed with way he shrugged off the injury after being hit on the vizer by a short pitched delivery.”
Ganguly once again reiterated that he is best bet at No. 3 in the longer format. “He is the best bet to bat at No. 3 for India in tests. He has scored in all the recent series. He should always be backed to come in at No. 3, as he has the mindset and technique to be successful.”
Ganguly also had words of praise for Vijay and said the opener was a class act because he had performed the world over. The former captain said it was a blessing for India to have two of their top-order batsmen score so consistently every time the team needed them to.
Vijay and Pujara have made 2081 runs at 65.03 in 32 innings. Commenting on Vijay’s knock on Friday, Ganguly said, “He is right now the best opening batsman of the country. He has scored runs all over the world. He is a class act I must say.”
Ganguly said the Test match was poised nicely and reckoned that the first two hours on Saturday would be crucial.
“Tomorrow's first session will decide which way the match is heading. If India can reach somewhere near England’s total then they will have an outside chance of sneaking a win. Else England will have an advantage. One more thing i.e., India should not produce rank turners in the remaining test matches as the English spinners gave a good account for themselves. The ball is likely to turn more from Day 3, which will make the match more interesting.”
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