The Most Underrated Indian Cricketer: Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane

Over the last decade, the Indian cricket team has undergone a significant transformation, emerging as a force to be reckoned with. With a plethora of talent, selectors have often faced the daunting task of choosing the best players. In this article, we will discuss two players who, despite their merit, remain underrated: Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane.

Cheteshwar Pujara: The Mental Rock of Indian Cricket

When discussing the Indian cricket squad, one name that stands out is Cheteshwar Pujara. Often overlooked, Pujara is a true gem for Indian Test cricket. His ability to play with mental stability and in his own rhythm makes him a valuable asset for the team. He negates the impact of a shiny ball by making it rough, thereby setting a strong foundation for his teammates to perform well.

Pujara’s consistent performances in the Test format have been commendable. His strike rate and ability to maintain form in challenging conditions set him apart. For instance, his knock in the West Indies tour in 2019 was a solid demonstration of his capabilities. Pujara is a well-rounded batsman capable of delivering even under pressure.

Ajinkya Rahane: The Unsung Hero of Indian Cricket

Another player who is often underrated is Ajinkya Rahane. Rahane’s partners in crime, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, have rightfully garnered most of the attention. However, Rahane has been an invaluable part of the Indian team, especially in Test cricket. Despite being overshadowed, his role as an anchor batsman in difficult conditions cannot be ignored.

One of the reasons Rahane remains in the shadows is his inconsistency in converting fifties into centuries. While this is a fair criticism, his fifties often come in moments of absolute necessity. Rahane’s relationship with Virat Kohli has sometimes led to his performances being overshadowed, but his batting prowess in tricky situations is noteworthy. For instance, his gritty performance in tough conditions against South Africa in 2018 was a testament to his resilience.

Rahane’s ability to play a slow and steady approach is both his strength and a challenge. As the last or second-last batsman to fall, he cannot afford to play fearlessly like the top-order batsmen. This strategy, while sound, often leaves him in the crossfire of criticism.

The Road to Recognition: Overcoming Underestimation

The road to recognition for these talented cricketers is often paved with challenges. Pujara and Rahane have faced their fair share of skepticism, but they have continued to prove their worth through consistent performances. Virat Kohli, in particular, has immense trust in Pujara's abilities and acknowledges his value as a teammate.

The key to their success lies in their humility and determination. Both Pujara and Rahane have shown that strength in performance speaks louder than any form of criticism or underestimation. With the right opportunities and confidence, they can continue to contribute significantly to the Indian cricket team.

As we look ahead, these cricketers have the potential to elevate their status and deservedly command the respect and recognition they rightfully deserve. Their resilience and dedication make them crucial assets in the Indian cricket squad.