Despite being sidelined from the Indian Test squad, Pujara’s outstanding performance not only earned Saurashtra a commanding position in the game but also set a new record, making him the first Asian to reach the milestone of 17 double centuries in first-class cricket.
Saurashtra’s domination
The match at the Saurashtra Cricket Association Stadium, Rajkot, witnessed an intriguing battle between Saurashtra and Jharkhand. Opting to bowl after winning the toss, Saurashtra’s bowlers, led by Chirag Jani‘s sensational five-wicket haul, efficiently bundled out Jharkhand for a modest total of 142 runs in 49 overs.
Cheteshwar Pujara’s supremacy
When it was time for Saurashtra to bat, Pujara emerged as the linchpin of the innings, making it a challenging day for the Jharkhand bowlers. With an impressive knock of 243 runs off 356 balls, including 30 fours, Pujara showcased his class and resilience. Supported by Prerak Mankad‘s significant contribution, Saurashtra declared their innings with a formidable score of 578 runs.
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Historic achievement
Pujara’s remarkable double century marked the 17th occasion in his illustrious career when he surpassed the 200-run mark in first-class cricket, which not only makes him the first Asian to achieve such a feat but also places him joint-fourth among batters globally in terms of most first-class double centuries.
Fans’ enthusiasm and request to BCCI
The cricketing world was quick to react to Pujara’s stellar performance, and fans showered the veteran batter with praise. Despite being overlooked for the Tests in recent times, supporters fervently expressed their desire for Pujara’s return to the national side for the England series, emphasizing that his recent innings should not go unnoticed.
Here’s how Twitter reacted:
CHETESHWAR PUJARA IS BACK…!!!!
Double hundred in the first match of Ranji Trophy 2024, dropped from the Indian team but returning in style with the bat for Saurashtra – What a player. ?pic.twitter.com/iVQUE8RYPa
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) January 7, 2024
The moment when Cheteshwar Pujara completed his double century ?
What a way to kick off 2024 Ranji Trophy season. pic.twitter.com/7Ite8MSook
— RUDRA?
(@invincibl39) January 7, 2024
243 Runs in 1st Match Of Ranji Trophy in This season .
Well played Cheteshwar Pujara .️ pic.twitter.com/yaxANeo0X1
— Majid speak (@majidamjad2017) January 7, 2024
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