3 probable contenders for Cheteshwar Pujara’s No.3 slot in the future

In a fast-moving world, cricket has seen many evolutions to date, and the longest format of the sport – Test cricket – has still not lost its charm among the true cricket fans. Still, playing the oldest format of the game is a dream for all the cricketers who started to play this sport. The most important aspect of the format is patience and India’s Rahul Dravid is the cardinal paradigm of it.

He is fondly called the Wall of Indian cricket as he used to build an innings slowly and steadily brick by brick. Dravid, still, is the fourth highest run-getter in the Test matches. The Indian batting legend Rahul Dravid retired in 2012 after playing 164 Test matches for India. After his retirement, the void in the slot was teased to be filled by Cheteshwar Pujara as he also possessed defensive skills and good composure.

The modern-day wall managed to perform well in that spot and has led the team to many glories. But recently, this 33-year-old player seemed to be past his prime and is out of form. There have been calls to replace him in India’s Test team.

In the article, let’s take a look at the best three players to fit at No.3 if Pujara continues to fail

1. Hanuma Vihari

The classic Indian Test batter Hanuma Vihari is the top contender on the list. The batter hails from Andhra Pradesh and has extensive experience of playing first-class cricket. He is known for his equanimity and defensive batting techniques.

The 28-year-old player debuted for the Indian Test team in 2018 after his phenomenal record in first-class cricket. He has played 12 matches and has scored 624 runs with an average of 32.84. He holds a century and four half-centuries under his cap at present.

Unlike the other formats which need only the match winners, the Test matches need match savers. One of a kind player is Vihari and it’s evident from a few of his innings and particularly in his last appearance against Australia, where he saved the drowning match with his 23 off 161 deliveries. He is a proven player and might be apt at No.3 for the future.