Scoring a ton for country gives satisfaction: Pujara

Hyderabad - Relishing another superb knock, Cheteshwar Pujara said that playing for the country and scoring a hundred always gives a different kind of satisfaction.

“It is always (a) proud (feeling) to play for the country. I always enjoy scoring hundreds whether I am playing for the country or club team. When you play for the country and score (a) hundred, it is a different kind of satisfaction,” said Pujara, who scored 204 on the third day of the second Test at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium here.

The 25-year-old, who made his first Test century at the same ground against New Zealand last August, said injuries have taught him a lot.

“When you are out of the team for a long time because of injuries and then, when you get an opportunity again to score, it is a different feeling. I think injuries have taught me a lot. I love playing cricket and when you are not playing, it is frustrating. It motivates you to work harder even,” said Pujara, who made his debut against Australia in 2010.

About his good show on the Hyderabad wicket, Pujara said playing against New Zealand and getting a hundred in the past helped him as he knew the wicket well. He added that he pulled a hamstring in the first session on Sunday and it was difficult for him to run and focus on his batting.

“I just wanted to hang around. Afterwards I was much better and could concentrate on my batting as well. I think the injury is settling down and I hope that I will be better.”

On his 370-run partnership with Murali Vijay for the second wicket, Pujara said their plan was to ensure that they don’t lose wickets.

“Later on, once I scored my hundred, I was set. I was seeing the ball well. I just wanted to play my natural game. I didn’t try doing anything extra.”

Pujara believes the wicket is now helping the spinners.

“I think there is a bit of help for the spinners now. It started turning little more and the odd ball is jumping, so it is good for spinners.”

Pujara said India was trying to find the weaknesses of Australian batsmen and so far they have been successful. He believes the Indian spinners just need to continue what they are doing.