For a cricketer who plays only one format, it means that the chance to win an ICC trophy is limited. Cheteshwar Pujara, who is set to play his 100th Test at the Kotla on Friday, is focused on laying his hands on the World Test Championship trophy this time.

Having finished runners-up last season, India are in with a chance to qualify for the final for the second time and Pujara is determined not to miss this chance.

“There’s a lot to achieve but I am definitely satisfied. I am glad to be playing my 100th Test, but at the same time, we are in the middle of an important series so hopefully, we win this Test and move on and win another Test which will ensure we qualify for the WTC Finals. Yes, my dream is to win that WTC Final for the Indian team. Hopefully, once we qualify, we’ll look towards that,” Pujara said at a media conference on the eve of the second Test.

Pujara also has to keep up with long breaks in between Tests. “If you look at the current schedule, on average we play about nine Tests. When you play one series and go back home, unless you’re playing first-class cricket, you’re not in touch with the game....

“That’s the most important part for a Test cricketer, to keep challenging yourself, to keep training, keep practising... It’s important for a Test cricketer to keep playing firstclass cricket... you need to motivate yourself and be ready for the chance,” said Pujara.

Written with PTI inputs