Pujara In For Long Haul At Yorkshire

Guy Williams discovers why Indian run-machine Cheteshwar Pujara is thrilled to be returning to Headingley

Champions Essex begin the defence of their Championship title at Headingley today against Yorkshire whose batting will be greatly strengthened by the return of India’s world-class batsman Cheteshwar Pujara.

Without doubt, Yorkshire have chosen wisely in recruiting Pujara who, like Geoffrey Boycott, delights in occupying the crease for endless periods and therefore gives himself the best opportunity to score big hundreds.

A quick glance at the Indian’s first class record explains why Yorkshire were so keen to re-sign him after the favourable impression the prolific right-hander made in 2015.

Ranked seventh in the ICC table, Pujara has scored more than 13,000 runs, averaging 56.42, and has compiled 44 centuries. In 57 Tests, the 30-year-old has patiently scored 4,496 runs (50.51) which include 14 centuries.

However, what stands out significantly is Pujara’s ability to bat on and on once he’s reached three figures. Not only has he struck three Test double hundreds – one against England (206 not out) and two against Australia (204 and 202) – Pujara’s calm style has enabled him to score three triple centuries in first-class cricket – only the ninth to achieve that landmark.

In 2015, Pujara made only four Championship appearances for Yorkshire, but in his short stay became a popular player in the dressing room, even more so when he scored 133 against Hampshire at Headingley.