Cheteshwar Pujara Keen on England Comeback: “If the Team Needs Me, I’m Ready”

Pujara opens up on India comeback hopes in a latest interview. Cheteshwar Pujara has made it clear — he’s ready to return to the Indian Test side if the opportunity comes his way. The seasoned batter, who last played for India in the World Test Championship Final against Australia at The Oval in 2023, expressed his desire to don the whites again for the upcoming five-match Test series in England.

Speaking on Backstage with Boria (Season 6), Pujara stated, “If the team needs and I get the opportunity, I am prepared. I’ve been working on my fitness and performing consistently in domestic and county cricket. India haven’t won a Test series in England for nearly two decades. If I’m picked, I’ll give it everything.”

Performing without expectations

Despite being on the fringes, the 36-year-old has stayed committed to the game. In the 2024–25 Ranji Trophy, Pujara scored 402 runs in 10 innings for Saurashtra, including a century and a fifty. He also continued his county stint with Sussex, where he accumulated 870 runs in 16 matches, including a hundred and five fifties.

“When you’ve played over 100 Tests and aren’t part of the squad, it does hurt. But I don’t dwell on that. I stay motivated because of my love for the game. Whether it’s Saurashtra or Sussex, my goal is always the same — contribute to a team win,” he said.

Quiet resilience, loud intent

Pujara’s resilience reflects in his approach. He prefers to focus on preparation rather than selection. “Failure is collective, not individual. My performances in England and Australia for India remind me what I’m capable of. I’ll continue working hard and stay ready. If the call comes, I’ll be there,” he added.

India’s tour of England begins on June 20 at Leeds and also marks the start of the new WTC cycle. With the team seeking stability in the middle order, Pujara’s experience might yet prove invaluable in England’s challenging conditions.

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