New Delhi, October 21, 2024
Cheteshwar Pujara has once again etched his name in the record books by scoring his 66th first-class century on October 21, 2024, during the second round of the Ranji Trophy against Chhattisgarh, eclipsing the legendary Brian Lara to become the player with the most first-class hundreds in the history of cricket. In a stunning display of skill and perseverance, this remarkable achievement highlights Pujara’s relentless dedication to the game and his exceptional talent in red-ball cricket.
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Although Pujara is currently not part of the Indian Test team, his outstanding performance in this match enabled him to surpass the significant milestone of 21,000 runs, showcasing his extensive experience and exceptional skill in red-ball cricket.
Born on January 25, 1988, in Rajkot, Gujarat, he comes from a cricket-loving family. His father, Arvind Pujara, and uncle, Bipin Pujara, both played for Saurashtra in the Ranji Trophy, providing a strong foundation for Cheteshwar’s cricketing ambitions.
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Pujara made his first-class debut for Saurashtra in December 2005 and quickly established himself as a reliable batsman. His ability to anchor innings and play long, focused knocks has made him a cornerstone of the Indian Test team.
With over 100 Test matches to his name, Pujara has accumulated 7,195 runs at an impressive average of 43.60, including 19 centuries. His pivotal contributions during India’s historic Test series win in Australia in 2018-19 are a highlight of his career, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure.