We can win if we bat well on the fourth day: Cheteshwar Pujara

Rajkot: Far from being disheartened by the loss of quick wickets just before close, Cheteshwar Pujara feels India can force a win if they bat well on Saturday.

“The way I started playing shots, I expected that they will be on the defensive mode but when they have 537 runs on board the plan is very simple, first to reach that mark. And obviously we have a bright chance to win the game if we bat well on the fourth day,” said Pujara, who scored an attacking 124.

“The ball will start turning and batting on day five will be difficult. At the moment I don’t want to talk too much about it,” said Pujara, who himself along with Murali Vijay were dismissed in the final session. Pujara based his optimism on his deep knowledge of the SCA Stadium track and at a venue where he has a first class triple hundred to boast of.

“We are still in a good position once we bat well and get a lead of 60-70 runs which will help us in the second innings. It’s a good wicket to bat on. I saw some spin, saw a couple of balls turn and bounce. We expect it to be more as match progresses. And possibly press for win the day after.”

India also lost Amit Mishra in the final over to be 319/4 at stumps, still 218 runs behind England.

Pujara added 209 runs for the second wicket with Vijay who played the ideal foil, scoring 126.

Asked about the chemistry between him and the Tamil Nadu player, with whom he has forged six triple-digit stands including a record 370 against Australia at Hyderabad three years ago, Pujara said they communicate well with each other on and off the field.

“It’s the communication, both of us have been playing Test cricket for a long time. Sometimes it’s difficult for players playing only this particular format,” said Pujara who, like Vijay, has been preferred only for Test matches.