Ricky Ponting’s Warning to Aussie Bowlers, Cheteshwar Pujara Looms as Menacing Threat in WTC Final 2023

Ricky Ponting, the former captain of the Australian cricket team, has emphasized the significance of dismissing Cheteshwar Pujara, the prominent Indian batsman, early in the WTC final 2023. World Test Championship final will be played from June 7 to 11 in England.

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Ponting acknowledged Pujara’s ability to pose a challenge for Australian bowlers in previous encounters, both in Australia and in general. He described Pujara as a consistent performer who has troubled the Australian team on numerous occasions.

Ponting shared his thoughts during an episode of The ICC Review Podcast, highlighting the Australian team’s awareness of Pujara’s capabilities and their deliberate plans to counter his influence in the upcoming WTC final.

Sussex 💙

📸: @ThatsSoVillage pic.twitter.com/uwrtKTjHol

— Cheteshwar Pujara (@cheteshwar1) May 25, 2023

WTC Final 2023: Ricky Ponting About Cheteshwar Pujara

“The Australian team will be talking about Pujara. Pujara has been a thorn in their side a lot in the past and in Australia. They know they will have to get him early,” said Ponting on The ICC Review Podcast.

Recognizing the importance of Pujara’s wicket, Ponting stated that the Australian team would be focusing their discussions on strategies to dismiss him early in the World Test Championship final between India and Australia. He said ‘Pujara has been a thorn in their side. By removing Pujara from the crease quickly, they aim to neutralize his impact on the game and disrupt India’s batting lineup.

Cheteshwar Pujara’s exceptional performance in County Cricket has added to the Indian team’s optimism as they face challenges due to injuries and the absence of key players. Representing Sussex, Pujara has impressively registered three centuries, demonstrating his excellent form during his time in England.

Ricky Ponting, while acknowledging Pujara’s prowess, also highlighted the difficulties posed by former Indian captain Virat Kohli. Ponting affirmed that the Australian team would undoubtedly be discussing strategies to counter the impact of Kohli on the game.

When asked about the key battle he is most anticipating, Ponting emphasized the significance of the contest between the opening batsman and the opening bowler. Considering the conditions in England, Ponting recognized the advantage of early breakthroughs with the new ball. Simultaneously, he acknowledged that a strong start by the batsmen could lay the foundation for a successful team performance.