Ranji Trophy 2023-24: Cheteshwar Pujara scores immaculate double-century to depress Jharkhand
In the initial round of the 2023-24 Ranji Trophy season against Jharkhand, Cheteshwar Pujara showcased his batting prowess by notching up his 17th double-century in first-class cricket. Starting the day at 157, Pujara surpassed the 200-run mark during the first session of the third day, concluding the morning at an unbeaten 236. At the lunch break, Saurashtra stood at an impressive 566 for 4, enjoying a substantial lead of 424.
Ranji Trophy 2023-24: Cheteshwar Pujara secures 6th spot in the list of most double-centuries in first-class cricket
Pujara’s remarkable achievement places him in the company of Herbert Sutcliffe and Mark Ramprakash, each having secured 17 first-class double centuries. He follows legends like Don Bradman (37), Wally Hammond (36), and Patsy Hendren (22) in the overall tally. This particular double-century marks Pujara’s eighth in the Ranji Trophy, where he trails only behind Paras Dogra, who holds nine.
As the seasoned batsman eyes a return to the national squad, he would be hopeful that this stellar performance puts him in contention for the upcoming five-Test series against England, commencing on January 25 in Hyderabad. Pujara’s last Test appearance was in June during the WTC final against Australia at The Oval, where India faced a defeat, and he scored 14 and 27 in the two innings.
In subsequent Test series against the West Indies and South Africa, Shubman Gill assumed the No. 3 position, with Yashasvi Jaiswal opening the batting. Pujara, on the other hand, participated in county cricket for Sussex, the Irani Cup, and the Vijay Hazare Trophy, with performances that didn’t stand out until this recent double-century in the Ranji Trophy.
Looking ahead, Pujara is likely to feature in at least one more Ranji game against Haryana at home from January 12 to 15 before the India squad is finalized for the England Tests. Saurashtra’s third fixture is scheduled against Vidarbha from January 19 to 22.
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