As India ended day 2 of the second test in Jamaica, there were very few reasons to ponder about. Opener KL Rahul registered his career-best score of 158, and that was his third career century, all away from home. The wicket as a whole stayed difficult as the other batsmen surrounding Rahul failed to convert their starts and register a big score.
But the biggest aspect of worry for the Indians would be the form displayed by the otherwise dependable Cheteshwar Pujara. The Saurashtra batsman seemed to be a little out of sorts against a mediocre West Indian bowling attack at Kingston. Rather than trying to break the shackles, Pujara went into the shell and got into a mode of only defensive cricket.
According to TV commentator and analyst Sanjay Manjrekar, the signs displayed by Pujara were far from optimistic. In his column for ESPN Cricinfo, the former Indian batsman spoke about a few issues about the match. “Pujara does not look the assured batsman he used to be’ It looked like Cheteshwar Pujara would be back to his run-scoring ways after a century in Sri Lanka last year, but his recent form suggests otherwise,” Manjrekar said.
The commentator has made a valid point out here, as after scoring a half-century against South Africa in Mohali, Pujara has completely looked pale. The India number three doesn’t seem to have too many options with his run making shots and that is hindering his skills at the top.
Manjrekar also criticized the approach of the hosts as the West Indies bowlers were quite defensive. “West Indies had a defensive approach overall,” he said. “The West Indies bowlers kept the runs in check in the first session, but that didn’t help them much as they failed to take wickets,” Manjrekar added. “West Indies need better leadership and guidance.” “In spite of having limitations with skill and ability, proper leadership can still motivate an inexperienced West Indies side to do better,” he said.