Image Source: AFP
[Saba Sports News] The Saurashtra Cricket Association (SCA) plans to celebrate the achievements of Cheteshwar Pujara and Ravindra Jadeja in recognition of their contributions to the state and Indian cricket.
This ceremony will take place before the commencement of the third Test in the ongoing series between India and England, set for February 15 in Rajkot. While Jadeja remains a crucial member of India’s Test squad, Pujara’s current absence from the team may be temporary given his strong performance in the Ranji Trophy. Jadeja, who missed the second Test in Vishakapatnam due to injury, is expected to return for the Rajkot match, pending fitness. He is currently recognized as the top all-rounder in Test cricket.
SCA President Jaydev Shah, in statements reported by News18, expressed the association’s pride in both players. He regretted Pujara’s absence from the Rajkot Test but celebrated his over 100 Test appearances, a significant achievement in Indian cricket. Shah also highlighted Jadeja’s status as the world’s premier Test all-rounder and shared his hopes for Jadeja’s attendance at the event.
“We will be felicitating both Pujara and Ravindra during the function for new name of the stadium,” said SCA President Jaydev Shah.
“I can’t say much on that (Pujara not playing) because it’s the team management’s and selectors’ call but had he been there, we would have been very proud. It’s not that we are not proud now, but we would have been more proud had he played. He has played over 100 Test matches and not many have managed to do that in India. Him playing at Rajkot would have been great but that’s part of the game. You don’t get everything what you dream. He has worked very hard. He made Saurashtra very proud,” he added.
“Ravindra still is making Saurashtra very proud. I heard Ravindra is injured… don’t know much about it but he is likely to come for the function. I hope so. We will be felicitating him also for being the world’s best Test all-rounder.” Jaydev concluded.
In other team news, Virat Kohli will miss the rest of the series against England for personal reasons. KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja, who were unable to play in the Vizag Test due to injuries, are back in the squad, with their participation contingent on passing fitness tests.
The squad for the remaining three Tests against England includes key players like Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, and a mix of seasoned and emerging talents, ensuring a robust team lineup for the forthcoming matches.