No. 4 Doesn’t Thrive Without No. 3: Kohli’s Belated Salute to Pujara Explains Why

Earlier this week, Virat Kohli took to social media to extend a warm and personal farewell to Cheteshwar Pujara upon his retirement from all formats. Though issued late, the message reflected deep respect and gratitude. Kohli emphasized that Pujara’s steadfast presence at No. 3 played an enormous role in making Kohli’s own job at No. 4 significantly easier.

Pujara: The Unseen Bedrock of Kohli’s Success

Pujara’s role in fortifying India’s Test line-up was quieter, but no less impactful. With a rock-solid technique and an unflappable temperament, he occupied the crease like a sentinel. His defensive reliability allowed players like Kohli to enter at No. 4 with the pressure alleviated. Critics and teammates alike now recognize how crucial that solidity was—not just for Kohli’s prolific batting but for the overall balance and confidence of the batting order.

Numbers and Noteworthiness

• In 103 Tests, Pujara amassed over 7,000 runs at an average well above 40, cementing his reputation as one of India’s finest red-ball specialists.
• During India’s historic 2018–19 series triumph in Australia, Pujara’s resilience at the top laid the foundation for Kohli’s onslaught. His marathon innings on dangerous pitches frequently anchored crucial survivors who followed.
• His method wasn’t flashy. But as teammates, including R. Ashwin, have pointed out, Pujara’s relentless presence was Game of Thrones-level steadfast—slow, unyielding, yet critical to the win.

When No. 4 Isn’t Dangerous Without No. 3

Kohli’s words indirectly underscore a simple truth of Test cricket: even the most dangerous strikers need someone to hang around at the other end. Pujara’s longevity at No. 3 often set the stage for Kohli’s freedom to play. That partnership of grit followed by aggression has been central to India’s red-ball ascendency.

Legacy Beyond the Stats

Even in retirement, Pujara’s legacy continues to grow. It’s not just about runs or averages—but about the silent strength he offered. South Africa, Australia, seaming tracks, deteriorating wickets—no matter the challenge, he embraced them all with patience that bordered on ritualistic. In the end, his exit is both a pause and a tribute to the enduring value of perseverance in cricket.