IPL 2021: ‘Don’t see Cheteshwar Pujara in Chennai Super Kings’ first playing XI,’ says Pragyan Ojha


IPL 2021: ‘Don’t see Cheteshwar Pujara in Chennai Super Kings’ first playing XI,’ says Pragyan Ojha

Pragyan Ojha and Cheteshwar Pujara

Indian cricket team’s star Test batsman Cheteshwar Pujara is set to make his comeback in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Three-time IPL champions Chennai Super Kings roped in Pujara for the base price of INR 50 lakhs during the recently-concluded auctions. 

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However, it won’t be easy for Cheteshwar Pujara to make it to the starting playing XI of the Chennai-based franchise. Former India spinner Pragyan Ojha also mentioned that he doesn’t see Pujara in the CSK first-XI. He added that the 33-year old can replace someone later in the tournament but he won’t start. However, the former cricketer backed Pujara’s ability to bat in T20Is.

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“I don’t see Pujara in the CSK first-XI, he will be part of the dressing room but I don’t see him in the first XI. Maybe he can be a replacement for somebody later on in the tournament but he won’t start. Pujara is a brilliant batsman, any format you talk about he has the skill and the temperament to play. He can perform, he’s got the ability,” Ojha told India Today.

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‘I’m very happy for Cheteshwar’ – Ojha

Cheteshwar Pujara (Photo - CSK)
Cheteshwar Pujara (Photo – CSK)

Pragyan Ojha reckoned that T20 is a completely different format from Test cricket as the players need to really fit for the shorter format. However, Ojha expressed his joy over Pujara’s IPL comeback as he got a chance after seven years.

“But when we talk about T20 cricket, it is far away from Tests. You have to be very fit, the challenges are different on the field. That will be a challenge for Pujara. But other than that, I’m very happy for him. He’s got his chance after 7 years so this itself is an inspirational tale for all the youngsters that you never lose hope, things will change around,” Ojha added.

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