Let's celebrate the arrival of Pujara
One of the key performers for India in the Test series against New Zealand has been Cheteshwar Pujara
Akhila Ranganna
25-Feb-2013
One of the key performers for India in the Test series against New Zealand has been Cheteshwar Pujara. Kunal Pradhan in the Mumbai Mirror writes that by ticking most of the No. 3 boxes, Pujara's century in the first Test in Hyderabad has led to a perception that India has seamlessly managed to fill the Dravid-sized hole in its batting line-up. However, he cautions that with such lofty associations comes great disappointment.
The danger in seeking players who fit a particular mould is two-fold. First, it encourages the elevation of those who may not be capable enough to make it in Test cricket. Second, and more important, it puts an inordinate amount of pressure on a new player to emulate not just the style but also the achievements of the colossus he’s replaced. Which is where Pujara faces his biggest threat going forward.
Akhila Ranganna is assistant editor (Audio) at ESPNcricinfo