Cheteshwar Pujara Re-Joins Sussex After South Africa Vs India Test Series Snub
Following his omission from the South Africa series, seasoned right-handed batsman Cheteshwar Pujara has inked a renewed deal with Sussex for the upcoming 2024 domestic cricket season in England, as confirmed by the county club on Wednesday, December 14. Pujara’s retention by Sussex is attributed to his outstanding performances for the club in recent years.
While Pujara was part of the Indian Test squad for the 2023 World Test Championship (WTC) final against Australia, he faced exclusion from the West Indies tour and was not selected for the upcoming South Africa vs. India 2-match Test series due to his subpar showing in the 2023 WTC final against the reigning ODI World Cup champions.
In the 2023 county season, the veteran batsman exhibited his prowess by amassing 649 runs in eight first-class matches at an impressive average of 54.08. Serving as captain, Pujara played a pivotal role in leading Sussex to three victories, securing a top-three finish in County Championship Division Two.
Pujara’s notable performances for Sussex include his highest score of 231 against Derbyshire in 2022, where he formed a substantial partnership of 351 with Tom Haines. In 2023, he recorded a top score of 151 against Gloucestershire, a remarkable innings featuring 20 fours and two sixes.
Couldn’t be more delighted to be back again with the Sussex family: Pujara expressed
Expressing his enthusiasm, Pujara stated, “I have enjoyed my time at Hove the last couple of seasons and couldn’t be more delighted to be back again with the Sussex family. I am looking forward to joining the team and contributing to its success.”
Sussex head coach Paul Farbrace expressed his satisfaction with Pujara’s return, praising both his playing abilities and his character. In addition to Pujara, Sussex has also secured the services of Australian duo Daniel Hughes and Nathan McAndrew, as well as West Indies fast-bowler Jayden Seales, as their other overseas signings for the 2024 season.
Farbrace welcomed Hughes, stating, “We are all very pleased to welcome Dan to Hove; he is a top-class player and has vast amounts of experience. We are all very much looking forward to working with him and enjoying how he helps our team on and off the field.”
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