'Bhaisahab ko fielding nahi karni hoti thi': Ajinkya Rahane shares story about Cheteshwar Pujara

Ajinkya Rahane has opened up about a memorable aspect of his time alongside Cheteshwar Pujara during their Test careers. The former India batter shared an anecdote that highlighted Pujara's approach to fielding duties after completing his own batting innings in the longest format. Rahane, who retired last month after accumulating 5,077 runs across 85 Tests, is now part of the expert panel covering India's ongoing two-Test bilateral series in Sri Lanka.

Pujara, who retired in 2025 after compiling 7,195 runs from 103 Tests, has since transitioned into commentary work. The right-handed batter has been providing expert analysis for viewers since India's last tour of England in 2025 and continues to remain connected to the sport through broadcasting.

Pujara's fielding preference during his playing days

Pujara's preference to sit out after batting was well known among his teammates, and Rahane found himself stepping in on multiple occasions to cover the short leg position.

"When he played, and I was the 12th man, whenever he came after his batting, bhaisahab ko fielding nahi karni hoti thi (he did not want to field). He used to sit inside, and a youngster had to go in. I have gone in to field at short leg for him, and we have been hit quite a lot," Rahane said on Sony Sports Network.

Jadeja reaches 350 Test wickets milestone

Meanwhile, Ravindra Jadeja achieved a significant milestone during India's Test assignment in Sri Lanka. The all-rounder completed 350 Test wickets, becoming only the fifth Indian bowler to reach this landmark. Jadeja joined an elite group that includes Anil Kumble (619 wickets), Ravichandran Ashwin (537), Kapil Dev (434), and Harbhajan Singh (417) in the format.

Among left-arm spinners globally, Jadeja now ranks third in Test wickets. He trails Sri Lanka's Rangana Herath, who took 433 wickets, and New Zealand's Daniel Vettori, who finished with 362 wickets. This achievement underscores Jadeja's standing among the world's premier spin bowlers in Test cricket.

Jadeja's milestone carries additional significance as he joined Kapil Dev as only the second Indian to accumulate more than 4,000 Test runs alongside 350 wickets. In the broader context of Test cricket history, Jadeja became the fourth player overall to reach this dual milestone, alongside Kapil Dev, England's Ian Botham and New Zealand's Daniel Vettori.