Yesterday, Cheteshwar Pujara brought up his 18th century on the Day of the Sydney Test between India and Australia. Pujara’s rock solid innings continued to bully the Australians on the day 2 of the Sydney Test as well. The right-hander continued to test the patience of the Aussie bowlers. No sooner he reached 190, the entire nation expected him to score a double hundred. But sadly, Pujara missed his double ton as he got out on 193 after Nathan Lyon who was handling the bowling duties took a low catch. His innings lasted for nine hours and eight minutes. Cheteshwar Pujara Scores a Brilliant Ton During Sydney Test, Nathon Lyon Asks Indian Batsman, ‘Aren’t You Bored Yet?’ (Watch Video).

Pujara faced 373 deliveries hitting 22 fours and no maximums.  The unfortunate departure of Cheteshwar Pujara bagged several reaction on Twitter. While a few netizens hailed his innings, the others said that it was unfortunate that Pujara could not score a double ton. Virender Sehwag hailed his innings and wrote, “Chitt ke Ishwar, another name for Lord Shiva - Cheteshwar Pujara. Destroyed Australia’s chances in the series, most number of balls batted by an Indian in a series against Australia. Outstanding 193, memorable knock.”Cheteshwar Pujara Scores 18th Century of His Career Against Australia During Sydney Test; Joins Virat Kohli & Other Elite Indian Batsmen. 

“Classical Test Match batting, a masterclass from Pujara. So much to learn from him for batsman all over the world these days. And while comparison is not fair, for the criticism he gets , in this series Pujara has scored runs at a strike rate marginally more than Kohli,” wrote Mohammad Kaif.

“There isn't a test match for a while for India. Cherished pujara's innings for as long as it has lasted. Hope the long breaks don't affect his form. Is a big challenge when you play only one format #AUSvIND #TeamIndia #Pujara,” read a netizen’s tweet.

Kumar Sangakkara wrote, “A great lesson to all batsmen in the series and tests in general. @cheteshwar1 showing how trusting your strengths and being unashamedly dogged in technique and concentration brings great rewards.”

Another netizen wrote, “Great ever test ton for Cheteswar pujara all time remember... But he dissapointed bcoz he just 6 shot missed to get his double ton... Well played 193(373) with 22*4's. Best part of this he maintained 50+ avg. 👏👍 #Pujara #AUSvIND.”

With his 193, Cheteshwar Pujara so far has made 521 runs in the series. India has piled up 441 runs with the loss of six wickets. Rishabh Pant also brought in his half-century and right now on 59 runs and is batting with Ravindra Jadeja.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 04, 2019 09:12 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).