Cheteshwar Pujara has been one of India’s most reliable Test batsmen. Known for his patience, solid technique, and ability to bat for long hours, he earned the tag of being India’s “new Wall” after Rahul Dravid. Over the years, Pujara has played many important innings that saved or won matches for India. Here are his top five Test knocks that stand out.
5. 153 vs South Africa – Johannesburg, 2013
Batting in South Africa against Dale Steyn, Morne Morkel, and Vernon Philander is never easy. But Pujara made it look simple with a brilliant 153 at the Wanderers. He stitched a big partnership with Virat Kohli, taking India to a strong position in foreign conditions. It was one of his finest overseas knocks, proving his skill against the best fast bowlers in the world.
4. 206* vs England – Ahmedabad, 2012
At just 23 years old, Pujara announced himself to the cricket world with a double century against England. He scored an unbeaten 206, batting for over 500 minutes. It was a classy innings full of patience, timing, and control. This knock not only helped India win the Test but also showed that Pujara was ready to take up the responsibility left behind by Dravid and Laxman.
3. 202 vs Australia – Ranchi, 2017
Pujara’s knock was like a marathon, 202 runs from 525 balls, the highest number of balls faced by an Indian in a Test innings. On a tough Ranchi pitch, he frustrated the Australian bowlers and built a crucial 199-run stand with Wriddhiman Saha. His patience and focus helped India gain control of the match, proving how valuable he was in grinding down the opposition.
2. 77 vs Australia – Sydney, 2021
India had to chase 407 runs in the Sydney Test. In reality, the aim was just to survive. Pujara played a fighting knock of 77 runs from 205 balls, tiring out the bowlers and keeping India alive in the match. His steady innings gave confidence to Hanuma Vihari and R Ashwin, who battled injuries to help India pull off a famous draw.
1. 56 vs Australia – The Gabba, 2021
This innings may not look big on paper, but it was one of Pujara’s bravest knocks. Chasing 328 on the final day at Brisbane, he scored 56 runs off 211 balls. More importantly, he absorbed body blows from Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, and Mitchell Starc, refusing to give up. His courage allowed youngsters like Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant to play freely, leading to India’s historic series win and breaking Australia’s 32-year unbeaten streak at the Gabba.
Why These Innings Matter
- Patience and focus – the ability to bat for hours.
- Staying strong in tough times – whether facing bouncers or saving a Test.
- Team contribution – building partnerships and giving others freedom to play.
Conclusion
Cheteshwar Pujara’s best innings remind us that Test cricket is not only about quick runs but also about character, courage, and determination. Whether it was his double century against England, his marathon knock against Australia, or his fighting half-century at the Gabba, Pujara always played for the team. These five innings capture the essence of why he will always be remembered as one of India’s finest Test specialists.
Written by Kinjal Walantra
