“Papa kehte hai bada naam karega”, an apt song to describe Cheteshwar Pujara’s introduction to cricket

by Shrutee K/DNS

Pujara, who smashed records by scoring the highest Test Match runs in a single season, joined Sandeep Patil on his show ‘Taste Match’ which airs on Living Foodz and & TV. He spoke about how his father and former Ranji trophy player, Arvind Pujara inspired his cricketing journey and was his first coach.

Fondly known as Chintu, Pujara followed his father's footsteps and went on to carve a name for himself in the sport. Viewers can get a glimpse into the heart-warming bond shared by Pujara and his father on the show. However, he reveals that Arvind has always been his coach first and father later. While the two don’t have a very expressive relationship, Pujara spoke about how his father has made immense sacrifices for him ever since his mother passed away. The family moved to Mumbai so that Pujara could play more matches. Pujara also expressed his gratitude towards another mentor and a coach he looks up to, Rahul Dravid.

Sandeep and Pujara were joined by Dhawal Kulkarni, the roaring bowler of Gujrat Lions. Dhawal was one of the most successful bowlers in his very first Ranji season. Dhawal confessed that his confidence skyrocketed after he won the title of the highest wicket taker at the Satkar trophy and he then believed that he could successfully represent India in the sport. Sandeep recalled how Dhawal accomplished an extraordinary feat by getting Virat for a duck.

Dhawal and Pujara have a lot in common including the fact that they both were among the lucky few who shared the field with Sachin Tendulkar during his last match. Pujara was a part of Sachin’s team, while Dhawal was in the opposite team. Dhawal also revealed how he was honoured to share a dressing room with Zahir Khan and Ajit Agarkar, who have been his role models. He spoke about his special bond with the Mumbai Indian players and how they have helped him improve his bowling. Moving on from cricket to cinema, Dhawal confessed that he is a fan of Katrina Kaif. In a light-hearted moment, Sandeep also discussed Dhawal’s uncanny resemble to Ajinkya Rahane and grilled him on his married life.