Motera unforgettable for me, says Pujara

Ahmedabad: The Sardar Patel Gujarat Stadium at Motera is very special to India’s most reliable Test batsman Cheteshwar Pujara. “This venue is very memorable and unforgettable to me as I played the India-England Test soon after getting engaged in November 2012,” said Pujara with a smile, during a virtual media conference on Saturday evening. Pujara married Puja at Rajkot in February 2013. Incidentally, Pujara slammed an unbeaten double century in the first innings and was declared the man of the match for his superb knock, helping India to a victory in the 2012 Test here. “This is a massive new stadium and we have been enjoying here,” added Pujara, when asked how he felt about the newly built world’s largest cricket stadium which will hold seven international matches during this England tour (2 Tests and 5 T20Is). No wonder, the thrill and enthusiasm amongst the local fans is immense. “I am very hopeful and confident of reaching the three-figure mark very soon,” was the pat reply, when asked as to when will his fans see a century from him. Pujara seemed optimistic of all-rounder Hardik Pandya making it to the team. “Hardik looks to be in good nick and has got his rhythm back. The team management will take a call whether he will be included into the playing eleven for the third Test,” said Pujara.Pujara is also very hopeful that India will make it to the final of the World Test Championship.“We are quite confident that we will qualify for the World Test Championship final,” said Pujara.India need to win the series to make the final of the World Test Championship against New Zealand at Lord’s from June 18-22.On the other hand, Joe Root’s England need to win both the matches at Motera to reach the final on their home soil.