Days after calling time on his international career, Indian Test great Cheteshwar Pujara has revealed his future plans, stating that he is "open to" a coaching stint or a role at the BCCI's Centre of Excellence. In a reflective interview, the recently retired batsman also shared his thoughts on the evolution of Test cricket and offered pragmatic advice to the next generation.
While Pujara has enjoyed his recent foray into broadcasting and plans to continue, he expressed a strong desire to remain deeply involved in the sport at a developmental level. "When it comes to coaching or any work at the NCA (Centre of Excellence), I'll be open to it," he said. "I've mentioned this earlier also that I would like to stay attached to the game. So, in whatever manner I can contribute to Indian cricket, I'll be more than happy to do so."
Pujara, who was a rock at number three for India for over a decade, reflected on the changing nature of the longest format. While acknowledging that the "classical form of Test match batting is a dying art," he believes there is still a place for the conventional approach. "I still feel that even in the current era, there is scope for a classical Test match player. But times have changed. One needs to move on with the time," he stated.
Given the modern selection trends, where aggressive, white-ball players are often fast-tracked into the Test squad, Pujara offered some practical advice to young aspirants. "If I had to tell anything to a young player, I would definitely say that you should choose playing all three formats of this game because we are seeing more white ball cricket now," he explained, noting that strong performances in the IPL or ODIs often lead to Test opportunities.
Looking back on his 103-Test career, which yielded over 7,000 runs and included historic series-winning performances in Australia, Pujara leaves the game as a content man with no regrets. He successfully carved out a brilliant career with his unique, resilient style, and now looks forward to a new chapter where he can share his immense knowledge and experience with the future of Indian cricket.