Ravichandran Ashwin has lauded Cheteshwar Pujara, who recently retired from all forms of Indian cricket, calling him the "white walker of Indian cricket" and crediting him as being instrumental in Virat Kohli's success. Pujara, who played 103 Tests, scoring 7195 runs at an average of 43.60, was known for his resilience at the crease, wearing down opposition bowlers and making it easier for other batsmen, including Kohli, to score runs.
Ashwin emphasized that Pujara's contribution to Indian cricket is comparable to those of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, though he feels Pujara's efforts often go unnoticed. He noted that Pujara's batting style allowed batsmen coming after him to score more freely. Ashwin also recalled an instance in Australia where bowlers were frustrated by Pujara's stubbornness, leading to Ashwin nicknaming him 'The White Walker', a reference to the monsters from "Game of Thrones". The 2018-19 series in Australia was a defining moment in Pujara's career, where he scored 521 runs at an average of 74.42.
Pujara is the only Indian batsman to have faced more than 500 balls in a single Test innings, facing 525 deliveries against Australia in 2017. He also absorbed 11 blows to the body during India's memorable win at the Gabba in Brisbane in 2020-21, facing 211 deliveries for his 56 runs, effectively tiring out the Australian pace attack.
Ashwin highlighted Pujara's crucial partnerships with Virat Kohli, acknowledging Pujara's valuable presence at leg slip. He stated that he would always want Kohli at short midwicket and Pujara at leg slip, considering their fielding positions "impenetrable". Kohli himself has acknowledged Pujara's contributions, recalling Pujara's century in Southampton in 2018 as one of his most memorable innings. Aakash Chopra has also praised Pujara's consistency and fighting spirit, noting his invaluable contributions to the team.
While figures like Sachin Tendulkar, Virat Kohli, and Rohit Sharma often dominate discussions about Indian cricket, Ashwin believes Pujara's contributions are equally significant. Despite not having a wide array of shots, Pujara maximized his potential through grit and determination. Ravichandran Ashwin considers Cheteshwar Pujara a "Test legend" whose contributions are as valuable as those of any other player.
