'Would like to give the best from my end and...': Indian veteran with 7195 Test runs eager to feature in England series

India Test veteran Cheteshwar Pujara is eager to make a comeback for the upcoming five-match England tour if the Rohit Sharma-led side needs him to be a part of the squad. Pujara, who has scored 7195 runs in 103 Tests, was the crucial part of the team in the longest format of the game since his debut in 2010. However, after failing to perform, the 37-year-old was dropped following the World Test Championship final in 2023.

Rohit Sharma-led India switched Pujara's batting position with Shubman Gill in Tests but the veteran is ready to make a comeback if needed. The Saurashtra batter said he is prepared from his end if the opportunity comes up. Pujara feels it is the perfect chance for him to contribute to a Test series win in England.

"If the team needs and I get the opportunity, I am prepared from my end. I have been working on my physical fitness, performing well in the country and domestic tournaments. Team India has been quite competitive, but has not won a series in England for around 20 years now, so given an opportunity, I would like to give the best from my end and grab the opportunity if the team needs me. This would be the perfect opportunity to contribute when a win is much needed in England," said Pujara as quoted by IndiaToday.

Pujara admitted that it is disappointing not to be a part of the squad any more, but is keeping himself motivated due to his love for the game.

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"When one has been successful at the highest level and played more than 100 Test matches and are still not a part of the team, you carry on the hard work that has been the reason behind getting the success."

"Not getting the opportunity is a big disappointment, but I keep myself ready and motivated because of my love for this game. And out of that love, I keep myself close to the game and routine without expecting much, and through any opportunity I get, be it domestic or county," Pujara said.

India are scheduled to play a five-Test match series, which is scheduled to start from June 20. This will be the first Test assignment for the Men in Blue after the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25.