England and India are presently clashing in an enthralling five-match Test series, with three matches concluded and the home team ahead with a 2-1 score. Concurrent with the intense on-field competition, former Indian batsman Cheteshwar Pujara has ignited discussion off the field by unveiling his all-time combined India-England Test XI of the 21st century. His selection, made as part of ESPNcricinfo‘s ‘The Draft’, has sparked debates across the cricketing fraternity—notably due to the omission of several celebrated figures.
Openers: An England veteran and ‘The Wall’ Commence the Innings
Pujara’s XI commences with former England captain Alec Stewart, who has also been assigned the wicketkeeping responsibilities. Celebrated for his tenacity and versatility, Stewart contributes stability and experience at the top. Intriguingly, partnering him is India’s iconic No. 3 Rahul Dravid, who has been elevated to open the innings in this hypothetical XI. While Dravid was not a consistent opener, his robust technique and composure render him a reliable selection in demanding circumstances. Nevertheless, the choice to exclude dynamic Indian opener Virender Sehwag, who revolutionized opening in Test cricket with his audacious strokeplay and two triple centuries, has prompted some inquiries.
Middle Order: Prominence Enhanced by Consistency and Class
The middle order showcases a blend of English sophistication and Indian aggression. England’s contemporary mainstay Joe Root bats at No. 3, followed by Virat Kohli, recognized as one of India’s finest across formats. At No. 5, Pujara has chosen the consistently dependable VVS Laxman, whose artistry and crucial performances have secured him a position. The lineup demonstrates equilibrium and dependability—players who have consistently performed against formidable opponents.
Absence of Sachin Tendulkar Despite Notable 21st-Century Contributions
A particularly noteworthy element of Pujara’s XI is the exclusion of legendary Sachin Tendulkar, widely regarded as one of the greatest batsmen in cricket history. Tendulkar played a substantial portion of his distinguished career in the 21st century, amassing over 8,000 Test runs during this period and delivering memorable innings against leading teams, including England. His non-inclusion in the lineup has sparked discussion among fans and analysts, many of whom contend that his legacy and impact merited a place in any combined XI featuring Indian and English players from this period.
All-Rounders: Energy and Adaptability in the Core
Two world-class all-rounders are featured in Pujara’s team—Ben Stokes, Ravindra Jadeja and Andrew Flintoff. The trio is renowned for their transformative capabilities with both bat and ball. Both Stokes and Jadeja have been England and India’s reliable performers in challenging situations, while Flintoff was a significant presence in the early 2000s. Their inclusion equips the team with depth, balance, and aggression in the lower middle order.
Bowling Attack: Contemporary Prowess in Pace and Spin
Pujara has opted for a strong four-man bowling attack, combining spin and pace. India’s primary off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin and left-armer Jaddu constitute the spin duo. In the pace department, he has chosen Mohammed Shami and Jasprit Bumrah, two of India’s most formidable fast bowlers in recent times. This bowling unit provides variety, control, and wicket-taking effectiveness in diverse conditions.
Cheteshwar Pujara’s 21st century combined India-England XI: Alec Stewart (wk), Rahul Dravid, Joe Root, Virat Kohli, VVS Laxman, Ben Stokes, Andrew Flintoff, Ravindra Jadeja, Ravichandran Ashwin, Mohammed Shami, Jasprit Bumrah.
