NEW DELHI: Indian batsman
Cheteshwar Pujara
displayed his mastery on the cricket pitch, crafting an unbeaten innings of 104 runs that proved instrumental in
Sussex
's commanding lead over
Derbyshire
in the
County Championship Division Two
encounter.
Pujara's exquisite knock, meticulously compiled from 167 deliveries and adorned with 10 boundaries, marked a significant milestone as it constituted his inaugural century of the County season, arriving in his third appearance.
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Prior to this stellar performance, Pujara had showcased glimpses of his formidable batting prowess with scores of 86 and 44 not out against Gloucestershire, followed by a composed 38 in his solitary innings against Leicestershire, thereby reaffirming his stature as a pivotal figure in Sussex's batting lineup.
Sussex showcased a formidable batting display, amassing a total of 357 for five on Saturday at the County Ground in Derby. Spearheaded by Cheteshwar Pujara's sublime century, the team flourished with significant contributions from
Tom Haines
(58),
Tom Alsop
(64), and
James Coles
(72).
This robust performance was a fitting response to Derbyshire's first innings score of 246, firmly asserting Sussex's dominance in the match.
At the close of play, Pujara, who was unsold for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024, was not out and was partnered by
Jack Carson
at the crease. His century is a significant achievement for Sussex, as it sets the tone for the rest of the match and potentially the season. Pujara's form will be crucial for Sussex as they aim to build on their lead and push for a victory in this match.
(Inputs from PTI)