R Ashwin’s Heartfelt Tribute to Cheteshwar Pujara
Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has showered high praise on Cheteshwar Pujara, calling him a Test cricket legend whose contribution to Indian cricket stands on par with stalwarts like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma.
Pujara, who recently announced his retirement after a remarkable 20-year professional career, was widely regarded as India’s most reliable No. 3 batter in Test cricket. His defensive solidity not only anchored the Indian batting order but also played a crucial role in allowing aggressive stroke-makers like Virat Kohli to flourish at No. 4.
🏏 The “White Walker” of Indian Cricket
Ashwin drew a fascinating comparison between Pujara and the White Walkers from Game of Thrones, describing his steely resolve and slow-but-unshakeable presence at the crease.
“If you guys have seen Game of Thrones, there is a character of a White Walker. I termed Pujara a White Walker. He walks slowly but never leaves the field,” Ashwin said on his YouTube channel.
Pujara’s batting often symbolized patience, grit, and determination, qualities that rarely made headlines on social media but proved invaluable for India’s Test success over the past decade.
🌍 Defining Moments: Australia 2018-19 and Beyond
One of Pujara’s most celebrated contributions came during India’s historic 2018-19 Border-Gavaskar Trophy win in Australia. He was the standout performer, blunting Australia’s world-class bowling attack with marathon batting displays that laid the foundation for India’s first-ever Test series win in Australia.
Ashwin also recalled the 2018 Wanderers Test in South Africa, where Pujara faced a hostile pitch against Kagiso Rabada, Vernon Philander, and Morne Morkel. Despite the ball seaming and bouncing dangerously, Pujara survived 54 balls before scoring his first run and eventually lasted 179 deliveries. India went on to win that match, thanks to his resilience and Shami’s fiery spell.
“On that spiteful Wanderers pitch, Pujara played 53 balls before he got off the mark. It was a thankless job, but it was vital for India’s victory,” Ashwin explained.
🎶 Why Pujara’s Batting Was Special
Ashwin highlighted that while the cricketing world celebrates Virat Kohli’s cover drives, Rohit Sharma’s pull shots, and MS Dhoni’s helicopter shot through viral clips and reels, Pujara’s defensive technique deserves equal appreciation.
“When Pujara bats, it looks like a symphony. His defence should be celebrated the same way we celebrate flamboyant shots. It is an art in itself,” Ashwin said.
👑 Pujara’s Legacy in Indian Cricket
Over two decades, Pujara built a reputation as India’s wall at No. 3, succeeding Rahul Dravid in that role. He scored over 7,000 Test runs, played many match-saving knocks, and helped India achieve victories in overseas conditions where batting was often most difficult.
Ashwin concluded his tribute by saying:
“He is a Test legend, an absolute massive legend of Indian cricket. His contribution is no less than anyone else — whether it be Virat, or Rohit, or anybody.”
📝 Conclusion
Cheteshwar Pujara may not have always dominated headlines with flamboyance, but his sheer determination, discipline, and fighting spirit made him one of India’s greatest Test cricketers. As Ashwin rightly pointed out, his legacy deserves to be celebrated alongside Kohli, Rohit, and Dhoni — as a true guardian of Indian Test cricket.
