Watch: Tributes pour in as Team India congratulates Cheteshwar Pujara ahead of his 100th Test | Cricket News – Times of India

NEW DELHI: Cheteshwar Pujara, who made his Test debut against Australia back in 2010 in Bengaluru, will achieve his 100th Test milestone against the same opponent when he takes the field in the second Test on Friday in New Delhi.
The 35-year-old batter will be the 13th Indian cricketer to play a century of Tests.
Indian players including head coach Rahul Dravid extended best wishes to Pujara ahead of his landmark 100th Test.

“Firstly, I would like to congratulate Pujara for making it to the 100th Test match for the country. It’s a big big achievement, not many people go on to achieve what you have done for your country,” skipper Rohit Sharma said.
“Puji from the first time that I have seen you or played against you was in a Ranji Trophy match where you scored runs and you beat Karnataka that’s become a recurring theme I think but it’s been a pleasure to just watch you evolve over the last 10 years,” said Dravid.
“This is a very special day for a very very special guy. Puji congratulations on your 100th Test. It’s a big occasion not just for you but for your family, for the people who have supported you throughout your journey and it’s a big achievement to play for India for so long that’s why you made it to 100th Tests,” said Virat Kohli, who also played his 100th Test last year.
Pujara expressed his joy at his feat and said these things happen only when you continue playing good cricket.
“When I made my debut I never thought about playing 100 Test matches and it’s always about the present,” Pujara told reporters on the eve of the Test.
“Hundred Tests is something that happens in a journey and something you can’t predict, but once you continue playing good cricket, it happens.”
Pujara has enjoyed remarkable longevity since his debut, averaging over 44 and making 19 centuries.