13 years, several runs and blows later, Cheteshwar Pujara is finally set to play his 100th Test match for the country in New Delhi. Over the last 99 matches, the right-hander has blunted several bowling attacks, playing out close to 16,000 deliveries in the longest format of the game. 

Following his 100th Test cap for the country, Pujara emphasised on the importance of Test cricket, stating that it is still the ultimate form of the game. Alongside that, he also added that it is one such format that tests your temperament. 

"Thanks Sunny bhai, [it's an] honour to receive it from you," Pujara told Star Sports. 

Grit, determination, and resilience - @cheteshwar1 has personified these adjectives throughout his Test cricket career. On the occasion of his 100th Test, Indian legend Sunil Gavaskar felicitates this modern great!pic.twitter.com/pRvff1Rjnd

— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) February 17, 2023

Over the last 13 years, the right-hander has many innings that have been filled with stoicism and doggedness. Pujara compared life to Test cricket, in terms of ‘temperament’. 

"Legends like you have inspired me., As a young cricketer, I always dreamt of playing for India, but I never thought I'd be playing 100 Test matches for India. I believe Test cricket is the ultimate form of the game and it tests your temperament; there are so many similarities between life and Test cricket,” he said. 

In SENA countries, the right-hander has scored five Test centuries, which is the second best for any Indian batter since his debut. But in home conditions, it is almost close to impossible for the bowlers to remove the right-hander cheaply, with 3706 runs at an average of 53.7. 

“I feel really proud and to all the youngsters out there, I encourage you to work hard and strive to play for India. Thanks to my family for the friends and support. Thanks to the BCCI, media, and my team-mates and support staff."