Leg and Off: Should India recall Cheteshwar Pujara for BGT 2024-25?

Cheteshwar Pujara, a prolific run-getter in Indian Test cricket, is once again making headlines with his stellar performances in the domestic circuit. The veteran batter, who has been out of the Indian Test team since the 2023 World Test Championship (WTC) final, smashed a gargantuan double century in Saurashtra's Ranji Trophy clash against Chhattisgarh.

His knock not only displayed his class but also sparked conversations about whether he should be recalled to the national side, particularly with the Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25 around the corner.

Cheteshwar Pujara’s latest Ranji Trophy heroics, where he registered his 18th first-class double hundred, speaks volumes about his continued commitment and determination. Playing at the Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium, Rajkot, Pujara came in at number three and anchored the innings after his team had lost an early wicket.

His 234-run knock came in response to Chhattisgarh’s massive first-innings score of 578, helping Saurashtra avoid further collapse. This performance has put selectors on notice, reigniting the debate on whether the seasoned batter deserves another shot in India's Test setup.

With India needing to win crucial Test matches to secure a spot in the WTC final, Pujara’s return could add much-needed stability to a sometimes fragile top order. But is this knock enough to earn him a place back in the side for the BGT 2024-25?

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Cheteshwar Pujara’s impressive domestic form

Despite being out of the Indian Test squad for nearly 18 months, Cheteshwar Pujara has consistently proven his mettle in the domestic circuit and even in the County Championship.

His last double century in the Ranji Trophy is just one example of his ability to rise to the occasion when his team needs him most. Pujara also holds several records in first-class cricket, with his latest achievement adding to his milestones.

These performances give rise to an unavoidable question: can India afford to ignore someone of Pujara’s experience, especially given his stellar form at present? His 18th first-class double tons prove not only his consistency but also demonstrate his fitness and hunger to score big runs.

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India’s top-order woes

India’s top-order has faced criticism in recent times, particularly after the poor showing in the Bengaluru Test against New Zealand. Shubman Gill, India’s regular number three, has been inconsistent, and while Abhimanyu Easwaran is another option, neither has the wealth of experience that Cheteshwar Pujara brings to the table.

As the team prepares for the BGT, possibly India's toughest Test assignment in recent times, having a steady hand like Pujara in the middle order could be beneficial.

However, Pujara faces stiff competition. India’s selection committee might prefer to give younger players more opportunities, and with KL Rahul’s place under scrutiny, selectors have several decisions to make regarding the team’s balance.

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A proven performer in Australia

Cheteshwar Pujara’s track record in Australia is hard to overlook. He was instrumental in India’s back-to-back Test series victories Down Under, particularly in the 2018-19 series where he was named Player of the Series. His 521 runs at an average of 74.42 during that campaign were vital to India’s success. In the subsequent series, Pujara once again provided crucial stability, enduring long spells at the crease against Australia’s fearsome bowling attack.

Given his past performances, Pujara’s return could provide India with the solidity needed to withstand Australia’s fast-bowling assault. While his form dipped in the lead-up to his exclusion from the national side, his recent domestic performances suggest he is far from finished at the highest level.

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The road ahead: Pujara’s case for a Test recall

As India looks ahead to the BGT 2024-25 and the remaining WTC matches, the question of whether to recall Cheteshwar Pujara certainly looms large. With the Indian team needing to win five of its next seven matches to ensure qualification for the WTC final, it is a critical juncture where every decision will matter. Pujara’s wealth of experience, combined with his impressive domestic form, makes a strong case for his inclusion in the squad.

While the selectors may prioritize youth and potential, Pujara’s consistent performances and ability to deliver in high-pressure situations cannot be ignored. With the BGT and WTC final qualification on the line, India could benefit from the stability provided by one of its most seasoned Test campaigners.

Cheteshwar Pujara’s recent domestic performances and past success in Australia make him a compelling candidate for a Test recall. Whether or not he makes the final squad for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, his contributions to Indian cricket remain undeniable. His desire to return to the national setup, though, is pretty clear.