Express Interview with Cheteshwar Pujara: – Indian batsmen have to play late, cut out few shots but turnaround time between IPL and Tests not ideal
As India prepares for a packed Test calendar, veteran batter Cheteshwar Pujara has raised a familiar concern: the short gap between the IPL and Test matches. In an open interview, he discusses the mental and technical shifts needed between formats. He also talks about what Indian batters must do to succeed in challenging overseas conditions.
The Quick Shift Between Formats
Pujara believes the biggest challenge today is the fast switch from IPL to Test cricket. The IPL demands quick scoring, fast reflexes, and aggressive intent. In contrast, red-ball cricket values patience and discipline.
“The IPL is fast and intense. Test cricket is about grinding it out. Switching formats quickly isn’t just about skills. It’s about the mindset,” he says.
In recent years, players have wrapped up the IPL and found themselves in whites just days later. They face moving balls in England or steep bounce in South Africa without enough time to adjust.
Pujara feels this transition is too short. “Ideally, batters should play a couple of red-ball games or at least have proper practice sessions. But that rarely happens.”
Playing Late and Making Smart Choices
Known for his rock-solid technique, Pujara emphasizes two crucial habits for Test batters: play the ball late and cut out risky strokes.
“In places like England or South Africa, playing late is key. The ball swings more, so going hard increases the chance of getting out,” he says.
He also urges players to resist playing flashy strokes early in the innings. While T20 cricket rewards quick runs, Test matches demand survival first.
“You have to earn your runs. Once you get past the tough phase, the runs will come.”
Technical Tuning for Overseas Success
India has produced many world-class batters in the last decade. Still, Test performances overseas often suffer, especially when the top order collapses. According to Pujara, this points to a lack of proper preparation and technical sharpness.
“Talent isn’t the issue. Test cricket rewards discipline and solid technique. But you can’t build those skills without proper red-ball practice.”
He compares India’s setup with that of England and Australia. Their players get regular exposure to tough red-ball conditions in their domestic leagues. That exposure builds better habits and match readiness.
“We need similar opportunities for our players—more four-day cricket, even if it’s abroad.”
His Own Journey: Learning in England
After being left out of the Indian team in 2022, Pujara went back to the County Championship in England. He played a full season for Sussex and scored heavily.
“Facing the Dukes ball in those conditions helped me a lot. You don’t survive there unless your basics are strong.”
The county stint taught him to stay patient, leave the ball better, and respect good spells. He returned to the Indian side more confident and composed.
IPL’s Impact on Test Preparation
Pujara praises the IPL for what it has done for Indian cricket. It has made players bolder, fitter, and wealthier. But he worries that it disrupts the rhythm required for Test success.
“It’s not IPL versus Tests. It’s about preparation. When the formats change quickly, players need time to adjust. That’s not always happening.”
He suggests a simple fix: more red-ball practice between the two formats.
“Even four to five days of Test prep can make a big difference. It helps players reset mentally and technically.”
India’s Test Future: Strong But Needs Focus
India has the talent to dominate in Tests, Pujara says. But he believes players must take Test cricket seriously—especially on tours.
“Overseas, things get hard quickly. If you’re not ready, it shows. Preparation and mindset are key.”
He hopes the younger players don’t just aim for quick success but also learn to embrace the grind.
“A gritty hundred in a Test match stays with you. It earns respect. And it helps the team more than a flashy T20 cameo.”
Final Words
Cheteshwar Pujara’s advice may sound old-school in an age of sixes and strike rates. But it carries the weight of years spent saving Test matches for India in hostile conditions.
His message is clear: patience, technique, and preparation are still the building blocks of Test success. The formats may keep changing, but the essence of Test cricket remains timeless.
As India gears up for its next set of challenges, following Pujara’s blueprint might be the key to consistent overseas success.
