Cheteshwar Pujara reveals he does not watch IPL on TV

What’s the story?

For any capped batsman, not featuring in the Indian Premier League can be a huge disappointment; especially if the tournament is a cash-rich league as the IPL. But, for India’s No.3 Test batsman, Cheteshwar Pujara, this is more of a ‘blessing in disguise’. He spoke of the perks of not being a part of the league rather than the feeling agitated.

“It’s either practice or fitness training almost the entire day and it can’t be cricket 24 hours. The switch-off happens in the evenings, when I’m with family or friends. That’s why I don’t watch IPL on TV, not because I’m not part of it. I watch occasionally, mostly if someone else is switching,” said Pujara.

In case you didn’t know...

Pujara finished the home season as the leading run-scorer for the nation, with 1316 runs at 62.66 which includes four hundreds. Despite contributing largely to the success of the team and earning respect from the teammates, he was not picked up by any franchise in the IPL auctions.

However, on April 7^th, he showed up at the Saurashtra Cricket Association stadium on an invitation.

The heart of the matter

Pujara has played for Kolkata Knight Riders, Royal Challengers Bangalore and Kings XI Punjab in previous editions of the IPL. However, he went unsold in the auction and is not part of the tournament, as a result of which he chooses to spend time with family and friends instead.

Also, if Puajra plays all of the Test matches, he could earn an estimated INR 4.25 crores. This estimation is considerably less than what most players earn from IPL alone.

However, he seems least concerned with what he is earning in comparison with the other players. For him, to have done well against Australia and to gain respect brings in more satisfaction which cannot be matched.

What’s next?

Currently, he is rejoicing the off-time with his friends and family, especially with his wife and his father. Other than unwinding and travelling, Pujara is hopeful of securing a contract with the English County Championship.

Also, Pujara who is known for getting the big hundreds for the nation since his younger days will look forward to doing his best in the upcoming Test assignments for India.

Author’s take

It always does good to look at the bright sides rather than being disappointed with the shortcomings. Pujara’s thinking is absolutely reflecting the same. Picking up the off-duration as the time to unwind and to focus on the future Test matches is something which might help him in the long run.

Also, being least affected by other’s earnings is a one of a kind attitude.