SYDNEY, Jan 3, 2019 (BSS/AFP) – Irrepressible Cheteshwar Pujara stroked
his third century of the summer Thursday to steer India into a commanding
position at 239 for four in the decisive fourth and final Test.
The rock-like number three has been by far the best batsman from either
side across the series against Australia, and brought up his ton in Sydney
with a boundary off Mitchell Starc.
It was another innings of patience and concentration, with the 30-year-old
reaching three figures in 199 balls with 13 fours.
The landmark was his 18th century in his 68th Test and follows a stellar
123 in the first Test in Adelaide and 106 in the third Test at Melbourne.
Pujara came to the crease when opener KL Rahul was out for nine and, as he
has done all series, quickly dug in.
He survived a review decision for caught behind on 12 but was otherwise
unmovable.
The experienced right-hander tends not to play much white ball cricket and
has credited the extra time he has to prepare for Tests as key to his
performances.