Cheteshwar Pujara Hits 20,000 Runs: A Cricket Maestro’s Storied Legacy Unveiled

Cheteshwar Pujara, a stalwart of Indian middle-order batting, has etched his name in the annals of cricket history by surpassing the remarkable milestone of 20,000 runs in first-class cricket. Achieving this feat during Saurashtra’s intense Ranji Trophy encounter against Vidarbha in Nagpur, Pujara’s masterful display of batting prowess proved pivotal in securing victory for his team by a convincing margin of 238 runs.

In the enthralling match, Pujara exhibited unwavering resilience and skill, contributing significantly with scores of 43 in the first innings, featuring four boundaries and a six, and an impressive 66 in the second innings, adorned with 10 boundaries. Saurashtra’s triumph in the match adds another glorious chapter to Pujara’s illustrious career.

As the fourth Indian batter to breach the 20,000-run mark in first-class cricket, Pujara’s consistency and dedication are evident in his performance across 260 first-class matches. Accumulating a staggering total of 20,013 runs at an average of 51.98, he boasts an impressive record of 61 centuries and 78 fifties in this format, with a highest score of 352.

In the esteemed list of cricket legends, Pujara finds himself in the company of greats like Rahul Dravid, Sachin Tendulkar, and Sunil Gavaskar, with each of them having left an indelible mark on the sport.

Transitioning to the international stage, Pujara’s Test career has been nothing short of exemplary. In 103 Tests for India, he has contributed 7,195 runs at an average of 43.60, with an impressive tally of 19 centuries and 35 fifties in 176 innings. His highest individual score of 206* stands as a testament to his resilience and capability in the longest format of the game.

However, despite his outstanding contributions, Pujara’s last appearance for the Indian Test side dates back to June 2023, during the ICC World Test Championship final against Australia in the UK. Subsequently, he has been omitted from the Test squad, including the upcoming five-Test series against England starting on January 25.

As cricket enthusiasts follow Pujara’s journey, his recent milestone and contributions continue to be a source of inspiration, leaving fans eager for his return to the international arena and further chapters in his enduring cricket saga.