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England and India are currently engaged in a gripping five-match Test series, with three games completed and the hosts leading 2-1. Amid the intense on-field action, former Indian batter Cheteshwar Pujara has stirred the pot off the field by revealing 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 world—especially due to the exclusion of some iconic names.
Openers: An England veteran and ‘The Wall’ open the innings
Pujara’s XI begins with former England captain Alec Stewart, who has also been assigned the wicketkeeping duties. Known for his grit and adaptability, Stewart brings stability and experience at the top. Interestingly, partnering him is India’s iconic No. 3 Rahul Dravid, who has been promoted to open the innings in this fantasy XI. While Dravid was not a regular opener, his solid technique and temperament make him a dependable choice in challenging conditions. Though, the decision to exclude explosive Indian opener Virender Sehwag, who redefined opening in Test cricket with his fearless strokeplay and two triple centuries, has raised a few eyebrows.
Middle order: Star power with consistency and class
The middle order features a mix of English elegance and Indian aggression. England’s modern-day stalwart Joe Root bats at No. 3, followed by Virat Kohli, one of India’s finest across formats. At No. 5, Pujara has picked the ever-reliable VVS Laxman, whose artistry and clutch performances have earned him a spot. The lineup reflects balance and reliability—players who have delivered consistently against top oppositions.
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No place for Sachin Tendulkar despite 21st-century brilliance
One of the most surprising aspects of Pujara’s XI is the omission of legendary Sachin Tendulkar, widely regarded as one of the greatest batters in the history of the game. Tendulkar played a significant part of his illustrious career in the 21st century, scoring over 8,000 Test runs during this period and playing some memorable knocks against top sides, including England. His absence from the lineup has sparked debate among fans and experts alike, many of whom believe his legacy and impact deserved a place in any combined XI featuring Indian and English players from this era.
All-rounders: Fire and versatility in the engine room
Two world-class all-rounders feature in Pujara’s team—Ben Stokes, Ravindra Jadeja and Andrew Flintoff. The trio is known for their game-changing abilities with bat and ball. Both Stokes and Jadeja have been England and India’s go-to man in crisis, while Flintoff was a dominant force in the early 2000s. Their inclusion provides the team with depth, balance, and aggression in the lower middle order.
Bowling attack: Modern-day pace and spin excellence
Pujara has gone with a formidable four-man bowling attack, combining spin and pace. India’s premier off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin and left-armer Jaddu form the spin duo. In the pace department, he has selected Mohammed Shami and Jasprit Bumrah, two of India’s most feared fast bowlers in recent times. This bowling unit ensures variety, control, and wicket-taking prowess in all 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.
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