Indian cricketer Cheteshwar Pujara is set to make a momentous achievement in his cricketing career as he receives his 100th Test cap against Australia on February 17 at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi. Pujara has been a cornerstone of India’s success over the years and has come up with multiple clutch knocks both home and away.
In his upcoming marquee Test against the Aussies, the right-hander will have a chance to break multiple individual records, making headlines and creating history. Let’s take a closer look at three records that Pujara can break in his 100th Test.
#1 Pujara Aims to Join Elite Company with 2000 Test Runs Against Australia
Pujara has been a thorn in the side of the Australian team, having amassed a total of 1900 runs in 21 matches against them, with an average of 52.7. If he scores just 100 more runs in his 100th Test, he will become only the fourth Indian to amass 2000 Test runs against Australia, joining the elite company of Sachin Tendulkar, VVS Laxman, and Rahul Dravid.
#2 Pujara vs. Lyon: The Fascinating Battle Continues
The battle between Pujara and Nathan Lyon has been a fascinating one for spectators. The two have faced each other in 28 Test innings, where Pujara has hammered 521 runs at an average of 52. This total is the second most by a batter against a bowler in Tests since 2000. However, Lyon has come out on top on ten occasions. If Pujara scores 11 more runs against Lyon in the upcoming match, he will become the batter with the most runs against a particular bowler in Tests (since 2000).
#3 Pujara Aims to Break VVS Laxman’s Record for Best Individual Score in 100th Test
Pujara will become only the 13th Indian to feature in 100 Test matches. Notably, the Gujarat-born lad will have a golden chance to make his headline match memorable by becoming the Indian with the best individual score in his hundredth Test encounter. The record is currently held by former legend VVS Laxman, who scored 64 during his 100th Test. If Pujara scores 65 runs or more in an innings in Delhi, he will shatter the record for India.
Pujara’s 100th Test is a momentous occasion for both the player and the Indian cricket team. With the potential to break several individual records, the right-hander will aim to make his presence felt against the Australian team and create a lasting legacy in Indian cricket.