Pujara takes fans by surprise with unexpected new role in Border-Gavaskar Trophy

The excitement is palpable ahead of the highly anticipated BorderGavaskar Trophy series between India and Australia set to begin on November 22 as both nations prepare for a thrilling contest that has long been a centerpiece of the international Test cricket calendar Adding a unique twist to this yearrsquos series is the return of Indiarsquos stalwart Test batter Cheteshwar PujaraqWhile Pujararsquos name may not feature on the playing XI he will be making a significant contribution in a different capacitymdashjoining the Star Sports commentary panel for the seriesHaving been dropped from the Indian squad for the series Pujararsquos return to the BorderGavaskar Trophy comes in an unexpected yet impactful role As a seasoned veteran of over 100 Test matches Pujara brings a wealth of experience and cricketing acumen to the table Known for his rocksolid technique and unflappable temperament at the crease Pujara will offer invaluable insights and expert analysis as part of the Hindi commentary panel His deep understanding of the game coupled with his knowledge of the pressures and nuances of a highstakes series like the BorderGavaskar promises to enhance the viewing experience for fans tuning in from across the countryAlso ReadGavaskar believes hungry Virat will feast on Australian recordsPujararsquos record in Indian Test cricket speaks volumes With over 7195 runs and 19 centuries to his name including a careerhigh score of 206 Pujara has been a cornerstone of Indiarsquos batting lineup for more than a decade His patient and meticulous approach to batting has made him one of the most reliable performers in Indian cricket history particularly in challenging overseas conditions As the series unfolds his presence in the commentary box will offer a unique perspective from one of the gamersquos most respected and accomplished playersThe BorderGavaskar Trophy will feature five gripping Test matches beginning on November 22 with the first Test at the iconic Optus Stadium in Perth The second Test scheduled for December 610 at the Adelaide Oval will bring an added element of excitement with the introduction of the daynight format The thrilling atmosphere under the stadiumrsquos lights is expected to add a new dimension to this already intense rivalryFrom there the action moves to The Gabba in Brisbane for the third Test running from December 1418 This will be followed by the muchanticipated Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground MCG from December 2630 a fixture that is always a highlight of the Australian summer The final Test will take place at the Sydney Cricket Ground SCG from January 37 where both teams will look to end the series on a high note with the series climax promising a thrilling conclusionIndiarsquos squad for the BorderGavaskar Trophy features a blend of experience and youth with captain Rohit Sharma leading the team alongside vicecaptain Jasprit Bumrah Key players like Virat Kohli Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin will be crucial to Indiarsquos chances while rising talents like Shubman Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal add dynamism to the side Rishabh Pant KL Rahul and Mohammed Siraj are also integral members of the squadFor Australia the Test squad is captained by Pat Cummins with experienced players such as Steve Smith Nathan Lyon and Usman Khawaja playing pivotal roles New faces like Travis Head and Marnus Labuschagne will add depth and flair to the lineup while the pace attack featuring Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood will provide the firepower needed to challenge Indiarsquos formidable batting lineupWith agency inputs