How Can Indian Batters Adapt to Score Runs on Challenging Pitches, Asks Pujara?
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Synopsis
After a disappointing loss to South Africa, Cheteshwar Pujara urges Indian batters to adapt their strategies for scoring runs on difficult pitches. His insights stress the need for improved preparation and proactive batting techniques to tackle spin-friendly conditions as the team gears up for their next Test match.
Key Takeaways
- Indian batters must adapt to challenging pitches.
- Shubman Gill's injury significantly impacted the team's performance.
- Proactive batting techniques are essential for success on spin-friendly surfaces.
- Team management should focus on improving footwork and shot selection.
- Upcoming matches require strategic reassessment.
Kolkata, Nov 16 (NationPress) Former Indian cricketer Cheteshwar Pujara emphasized that the batting lineup must discover effective strategies to adjust and accumulate runs on challenging pitches following a 30-run loss to South Africa in the initial Test at Eden Gardens on Sunday.
In a tough pursuit of 124 runs, India struggled to tackle the challenges presented by South Africa’s bowling attack, spearheaded by Simon Harmer with figures of 4-21, ultimately being bowled out for 93 in 35 overs. The absence of their regular captain Shubman Gill, who missed the match due to a neck injury that required hospitalization, contributed significantly to India’s batting collapse, with no player managing to score 50 runs.
“I think we are unsure if the team management actually preferred such a pitch. Regardless of the conditions, performance is essential, and preparation must be thorough. We should have bowled and batted more effectively,” stated Pujara on JioStar after the match.
“Losing Shubman Gill after the first innings was a considerable setback for the Indian squad. The batters need to find ways to score runs on such surfaces,” Pujara added.
India's defeat to South Africa marks their fourth loss in the last six Test matches on home soil. Pujara, who participated in 103 Tests for India from 2010 to 2023, also suggested that both head coach Gautam Gambhir and batting coach Sitanshu Kotak should guide the batters to enhance their footwork and shot selection to improve their performance on spin-friendly pitches.
“If the Indian team is to play more matches on such surfaces, it raises the question of where scoring opportunities will arise. This is a topic for discussion in team meetings. The batting coach needs to address the batters about using their feet, employing the sweep shot, and playing more aggressively on such pitches. It is crucial to apply pressure on the bowler, something the Indian batters did not achieve in this Test match,” he concluded.
India will have time to regroup and reassess their batting strategies before facing South Africa in the second Test at Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati on November 22.
Point of View
It’s evident that the Indian cricket team must reassess their batting strategies. Cheteshwar Pujara's insights shed light on the necessity for adaptability in difficult conditions. As the team prepares for future challenges, fostering a proactive approach will be essential for their success. NationPress stands committed to following their journey closely.
NationPress
16/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Cheteshwar Pujara say about the batting unit?
Pujara emphasized the need for the batting unit to adapt and find ways to score runs on challenging pitches.
What was the outcome of the first Test against South Africa?
India faced a 30-run defeat in the first Test at Eden Gardens.
Who was missing from the Indian team during the match?
Regular captain Shubman Gill was unavailable due to a neck injury.
How many Test matches has Pujara played for India?
Cheteshwar Pujara has played 103 Test matches for India from 2010 to 2023.
When is the next Test match scheduled?
The second Test match against South Africa is scheduled for November 22 at Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati.
