Rohit Sharma Acknowledges That Pujara-Rahane Still Have Chance To Make Comeback In India’s Test Squad

December 18, 2024: Rohit Sharma’s comments on the potential comebacks of Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane reflect the respect and value the Indian team places on their contributions to Test cricket. While their recent form has seen a dip, especially since the memorable 2021 Gabba Test win, both players have been instrumental in India’s middle-order batting for over a decade.

Pujara’s decline in recent years is particularly striking, given his earlier consistency. With 7,195 runs from 103 Tests and a number of match-winning centuries, Pujara was the bedrock of India’s batting in challenging conditions. However, his recent struggles—just over 1,000 runs in his last 22 Tests at a modest average—have raised questions about his future in the longest format. But his remarkable first-class record, with almost 20,000 runs at an average of 52, suggests that his potential is still high, and he could still make a strong comeback if given the right opportunities.

Rahane’s situation is slightly different. After his heroics in Australia, particularly his pivotal knock at Melbourne in 2020, he has struggled to replicate that form in subsequent Tests. With just 606 runs in his last 16 Tests at an average of 22.44, his place in the squad has been uncertain. However, his recent IPL performances with Chennai Super Kings, where he scored 326 runs at a remarkable strike rate of 172.48, have shown that he still has a lot to offer in the shorter formats of the game. His recent resurgence in the IPL could keep him in the conversation for a Test recall, especially given his ability to handle pressure situations, as seen in Australia.

Rohit’s comments are a clear indication that while Pujara and Rahane may not be part of India’s current Test lineup, they are far from being forgotten. The doors remain open, and if either player can rediscover their form in domestic cricket or other competitions, a return to the Test team is still possible. However, the form of younger players and India’s shifting focus on evolving its middle-order might mean that opportunities are increasingly limited. Nonetheless, the presence of players with such experience and character can never be underestimated.