Cheteshwar Pujara says he would be ‘open’ for coaching role after retirement

Recently retired Cheteshwar Pujara said he is open to coaching roles in the future. Pujara was recently seen doing commentary stints for Sony Sports Network during the five-match Test series against England.

Pujara played 103 Tests and 5 ODIs for India after making his debut back in 2010. He scored 7,195 Test runs at an average of 43.60, with 19 hundreds and 35 fifties. The right-hander was known for his solid temperament on the field, and there is no doubt that he could get the best out of the young players.

“I’ve enjoyed the broadcasting work for sure. So, I’ll definitely continue doing that. When it comes to coaching or any work at the NCA (BCCI Centre of Excellence), I’ll be open to it. I haven’t genuinely thought about it. Whenever there is any opportunity which arises, I’ll try and take a call then. 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 was quoted as saying by The Hindu.

On the other hand, Pujara also gave his gratitude to his father, Arvind Pujara and his late mother, Reena Pujara, for always supporting him in his journey. Pujara also thanked his wife, Puja Pabari, for her continuous support.

“It was an emotional moment for him [Pujara’s father] as well. He also was an inspiration for me because his commitment towards cricket was excellent and I’ve learnt a lot from him. But I also would like to thank my mom. I lost my mom when I was 17 because of cancer, but she taught me a lot of things. She taught me to be a good human being. My wife Pooja as well, she has written a book where she writes that it takes a village for a person to be a successful cricketer,” added Pujara.

Overall, Pujara finishes with 21301 runs from 278 first-class games at an average of 51.82 and 66 hundreds and three triple hundreds.