Australian cricketer Aaron Finch believes that in order to dismiss Cheteshwar Pujara quickly in the upcoming World Test Championship (WTC) final, the Australian team will need to adopt an attacking approach early in his innings. Pujara, a key player in the Indian batting lineup, is expected to pose a significant challenge for the Australian bowlers. Finch emphasized the importance of challenging Pujara from the start, drawing upon his team’s experience during the 2018-19 tour where Pujara’s resilient batting tested the Australian side.
Cheteshwar Pujara is regarded as one of the stalwarts of the Indian batting lineup and has played crucial innings in Test matches, showcasing his ability to occupy the crease for long periods. As India prepares to face Australia in the WTC final, Pujara’s wicket will be a top priority for the Australian bowlers. Aaron Finch, in a discussion on the Star Sports show ‘Game Plan,’ emphasized the need to attack Pujara early in his innings, citing the challenges faced by Australia during the 2018-19 tour.
During the 2018-19 tour of Australia, Cheteshwar Pujara emerged as a formidable force, scoring 521 runs at an impressive average of 74.42. His performances included three centuries and a fifty in seven innings, wherein he faced a staggering 1258 deliveries. Finch highlighted the impact Pujara had on the Australian team during that tour, with his dogged batting wearing down the opposition.
Drawing from the past experience of facing Pujara, Aaron Finch emphasized the importance of challenging Pujara’s front-foot defense early on in his innings. Finch suggested that attacking Pujara within the first 10 balls would be crucial, as that is when batsmen are typically vulnerable. Recognizing Pujara’s resilience and skill as a batsman, Finch stressed the need to disrupt his rhythm and break his concentration during the early stages of his innings.
