The five-match test series between India and England is all set to kick off on Thursday, January 25. The first game will take place at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad. This series is important because it is part of the ongoing WTC championship. But just a couple of days ahead of the first test, India suffered a big blow.
Virat Kohli has withdrawn from the test, citing personal reasons. He talked to Rohit Sharma, Management, and the BCCI and made his request. Hence, the BCCI has accepted his request, and he will be unavailable for the first two matches. The BCCI has not announced his replacement. But if needed, Cheteshwar Pujara is the perfect replacement for Virat.
Three Reasons why Cheteshwar Pujara is perfect replacement for Virat Kohli for first two tests
1. In-form Batter
If the BCCI wants a player in form, then Cheteswar Pujara is certainly a contender. He is currently playing in the ongoing Ranji Trophy (2023–24). The 35-year-old is the second-highest run scorer in the competition. He has played three games and scored 444 runs in five innings at an incredible average of 111. Pujara has scored one hundred and one fifty with a best of 243. He is among the runs and can use that form in the test series.
2. Old is GOLD
Virat is the only batter with 100+ test matches in the current squad, and his experience matters a lot. But with him not being part of the team, it might affect the batting order. Hence, Cheteshwar Pujara, who has played 103 tests for India, will be an ideal replacement for Virat. Pujara’s experience will be pretty good for the team, and he knows how to play on turning tracks in India.
3. Records against England
Cheteshwar Pujara’s stats against England are next to the best. After Virat Kohli, he has scored the most test runs against England among the active Indian players. Pujara has played 27 tests against England and has scored 1778 runs at 39.51, with a best of 206 not out. He has also scored five centuries and seven half-centuries against the English team, and they are one of his favourite opponents to score runs against.
