'With Kohli missing...': Broad suggests inclusion of this batter

NEW DELHI: Former England seamer

Stuart Broad

has voiced his opinion on India's batting lineup for the ongoing five-match series against England, advocating for the inclusion of experienced batter

Cheteshwar Pujara

in the absence of former captain

Virat Kohli

.
Kohli's absence from the series due to personal reasons has left a void in the Indian batting order, prompting Broad to express his views.

"With the experience & world-class talent of Kohli missing, would there have been temptation to bring back Pujara into this India batting lineup? Or is his international career over? Feels like he could have brought some consistency and an anchor," Broad shared on X, highlighting Pujara's potential role as a stabilizing force in the team.

Pujara, renowned for his solidity in the middle-order, boasts an impressive Test record, having amassed 7,195 runs at an average of 43.60 in 103 matches. Despite his recent struggles, particularly since India's historic triumph over Australia at The Gabba in January 2021, where he played a pivotal role, Pujara's experience and track record cannot be overlooked.
Since the Gabba victory, Pujara's form has witnessed a decline, managing only 1,084 runs at an average of 29.29 in 22 Tests.

However, his consistent performances in domestic cricket, notably in the

Ranji Trophy

where he scored 783 runs at an average of 71.18, suggest he still has plenty to offer at the international level.

Meanwhile, in the ongoing Test match between India and England, England posted a respectable total of 353 in their first innings, anchored by an unbeaten century from captain Joe Root.
In response, India ended day two at 219/7 in their first innings, with

Yashasvi Jaiswal

and Shubman Gill making significant contributions with the bat. However, England spinners Shoaib Bashir and Tom Hartley dominated proceedings, leaving the Three Lions with a lead of 134 runs heading into the next day's play.

(With inputs from ANI)