Cheteshwar Pujara, a batsman for India and the Chennai Super Kings (CSK), has expressed regret for right-handed batter Hanuma Vihari, who should have featured in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2021. CSK bought Pujara for INR 50 lakh at the players’ auction in February this year, though Hanuma Vihari went unsold and had no takers.
“Without a doubt. I’m overjoyed that what I’ve done with the Indian team has been appreciated, and that I’ve had results as a result of it. All of the franchises clapped in the auction room when I was chosen, I was told. I believe that when you do something for the Indian team, people appreciate it because they recognise the importance I offer. Not just the franchises, but almost all of my India teammates were ecstatic for me. I’ve been the only one from the Indian squad who hasn’t played in the IPL in the last few years “ESPNcricinfo quoted Pujara as saying
“Hanuma Vihari is the only one left out at this point. I sympathise with him. He used to be a member of the IPL. I believe he should be a member of the IPL as well “Added he.
In India’s 2-1 victory over Australia in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, both Pujara and Vihari put in strong performances. Following Pujara’s selection, CSK management stated that they wanted to award him with an IPL contract for his Test performances.
Pujara said when asked how he felt about being selected by CSK for the upcoming IPL: “I was overjoyed to be back in the Indian Premier League. As an Indian player, you don’t want to miss out on this opportunity. Normally, I play county cricket, but I was unable to do so last year due to Covid-19. You want to play this game while you like it. When it comes to the IPL, you want to be a part of it. It is known as one of the strongest leagues on the planet. Yeah, playing for the Indian team is a totally different experience, but any cricketer would relish the chance to compete in the IPL. I’m no different.”
Pujara also said that he is not concerned about playing for MS Dhoni’s side this season, and that if he is offered a chance in the playing XI, he will give it his all.
“Not at all. Because of Test cricket, I am now highly optimistic. That self-assurance derives from my hard work, and I plan to put in the effort right from the start of my first net session. In the Test style, there is a lot of focus, and the overseas tours are the most difficult. But I don’t think there’s any fear of playing in the IPL now that you’ve been a part of it. There will be a certain kind of pressure: to effectively play this style and chase. This format poses a unique challenge “Pujara said.
“No, it isn’t. You shouldn’t be concerned about the result. To be good, you should be doing the right thing – whether you’re talking about hard work, commitment, or determination. Stick with it until you’re ready; the result will generally [take care of itself]. I’m focusing on my job as a player “Added he.
The IPL 2021 will begin on April 9 with a match between the Mumbai Indians and the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). CSK will face Delhi Capitals in their first match on April 10 at Wankhede Stadium.