New Delhi, Aug 28 (PTI) - Cheteshwar Pujara, the Indian Test batting stalwart, who recently announced his retirement from all forms of cricket, is considering a possible coaching stint or a role with the BCCI's Centre of Excellence.
Pujara discussed his post-retirement plans with PTI, emphasizing his affinity for traditional Test match batting while reflecting on his illustrious 103-Test career that amassed over 7,000 runs, including memorable series-winning performances in Australia, and the unwavering support of his father and late mother.
"I've enjoyed the broadcasting work for sure. So, I'll definitely continue doing that. When it comes to coaching or any work at the NCA (Centre of Excellence), I'll be open to it," Pujara stated.
"I haven't genuinely thought about it. Whenever there is any opportunity which arises, I'll try and take a call then...I've mentioned this earlier also that I would like to stay attached to the game.
"So, in whatever manner I can contribute to Indian cricket, I'll be more than happy to do so," he added.
Despite not contemplating retirement while on the field, Pujara steps away from the game with no regrets, though recognizing the dwindling practice of classical Test match batting.
While commentating in the UK where a young Indian side impressed by tying a five-match series, Pujara observed aggressive styles from players such as Rishabh Pant and Ben Duckett, yet took heart in the calm approach of K L Rahul as an opener, symbolizing hope for traditional Test batting.
"He is one of the best Test batters we have currently in the squad... He is one of the most technically correct players in the Indian team. Also, it is good that he is opening the innings which is also setting the foundation for the entire team.
"We also saw that he performed well in Australia and then his form dipped a bit but now he is working on it...he is carrying on with his form, converting his starts into big scores which is a positive thing to see.
"Hope he carries on like that not just in Test cricket but in other formats as well," Pujara commented.
Retirement Sinking In
Pujara, who was actively participating in cricket through Saurashtra in Ranji Trophy and county cricket before returning to Rajkot, reflected on his decision to retire.
"Slowly it is sinking in. But at the same time, I'm really overwhelmed with all the love and support provided by all the family members, friends and my teammates, the coaches I've worked with, the cricket fans," he said.
Pujara did not cite the retirements of contemporaries Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma as reasons for his decision.
"When I was in the UK, I was actually looking forward to the season. But once I came back home, I was settling in. And when I was about to start my preparation for the Ranji Trophy, I wanted to speak to my family, to my friends, some of my colleagues. What are their thoughts on me playing this season.
"Because I knew that if I played another season, I would be holding a spot in the team and I didn't want to do that. And I wasn't 100 per cent sure that I wanted to carry on playing the entire season.
"So I thought that it was the best time for me to move on and provide an opportunity to the younger player who can be part of the Saurashtra team."
Pujara's 16217 balls faced in his Test career were pivotal in allowing teammates like Kohli to play freely.
"It's a nice compliment from Virat. He's a great player.
"And if he's saying that I've made his life easier, I'm really proud because if you're a top-order batsman, your job is to ensure that the batters who bat at number 4, 5, 6, you make their life easier."
India's search for a solid number three continues in Pujara's absence, though he sees potential in young players like Sai Sudharshan and Karun Nair.
Parental Influence and Test Victories in Australia
Pujara emotionally recounted the impact of his father Arvind, also his coach, and his late mother, Reena, in shaping his career and character.
"I lost my mom when I was 17 because of cancer, but she taught me a lot of things. She taught me to be a good human being. My wife Pooja as well, she has written a book where she writes that it takes a village for a person to be a successful cricketer," he said.
Australia was a favored battleground for Pujara, culminating in back-to-back series wins Down Under.
"It's hard to pick one series because both have been incredible ones. I was able to contribute in both the series in different ways.
"...2018 was the first time when India won the Test series on Australian soil. So that is one of the proudest moments for me individually," he reflected.
Pujara found England the most challenging venue due to its unique conditions.
Learnings from Legends
The wisdom and guidance from cricket luminaries like Sachin Tendulkar and Rahul Dravid greatly influenced Pujara in his development as a player.
"...when you have so many senior players within the dressing room, you get to interact with them... Also, I had asked them questions about how to be successful in overseas conditions.
"I have spoken to each and every one of them individually and I have got great feedback, great inputs about how they prepared, what they saw in my game and what I had to work on going forward."
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