Daijiworld Media Network- Leeds
Leeds, Jun 20: As Team India intensified preparations for their much-anticipated five-match Test series against England, a familiar face from the past added warmth and nostalgia to the training session at Headingley. Former India No. 3 and Test stalwart Cheteshwar Pujara paid a surprise visit to the squad on Thursday, a day ahead of the series opener.
Now part of the commentary panel, the 37-year-old veteran – who last donned India colours in the 2023 World Test Championship final – received a warm reception at the nets. He was seen in cheerful conversation with spinner Kuldeep Yadav and bowling coach Morne Morkel, the latter joking, “He (Kuldeep) has kept me on my toes,” drawing laughter from the group.
Pujara, with over 7,000 runs from 103 Tests at an average of 43.60, remains one of India’s most dependable red-ball players in recent history. However, with India looking to build a younger core, the No. 3 slot he once owned is now up for grabs, with contenders like B Sai Sudharsan and Karun Nair eyeing the spot.
Adding a historical touch to the occasion, cricketing legends Sachin Tendulkar and James Anderson officially unveiled the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, which will henceforth represent all Test series between India and England. Replacing the Pataudi Trophy (in England) and the Anthony de Mello Trophy (in India), the new silverware celebrates the immense contributions of the two icons who top the list for most Test appearances.
The trophy was launched in a delayed ceremony, originally scheduled for June 14 but postponed due to the tragic Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad.
In a fitting tribute to the legacy of the Pataudi family, a Pataudi Medal has also been introduced and will be presented to the winning captain of every India-England Test series moving forward.
With excitement building and history being forged off the field, all eyes are now on Headingley as the two traditional powerhouses prepare to renew their rivalry — this time, under the banner of two modern greats.