3rd Test: 187 is as good as 300 on Johannesburg pitch, says Cheteshwar Pujara

Cheteshwar Pujara, who battled hard for each of his 50 runs, believed that India had done well, even though they only managed 187 in their first innings

Cheteshwar Pujara

Cheteshwar Pujara, who battled hard for each of his 50 runs, believed that India had done well, even though they only managed 187 in their first innings. "This is one of the toughest pitches I've played on. It was difficult to score some runs, especially in the first session. It was difficult to rotate the strike — it has a lot of bounce, it has seam movement and there is enough pace," said Pujara after Day One of the third and final Test here yesterday.

"But, the total we have I think is as good as scoring 300 on any wicket. I would say it was a good day for us." Pujara was hopeful that India could roll South Africa over for 150, although it's worth remembering that he also suggested India could chase 350 in Cape Town, where India were bowled out for 135, chasing 208. "We'll be looking to get them out before 150," said Pujara. "And obviously, looking at this total, I think the second innings will be very important." Pujara added that South Africa's bowlers asked many questions of the India's batsmen. "We know that, we always expect them to do that. They have good lines and lengths, but at the same time, on this wicket, our bowlers will bowl better lengths."

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