SA vs Ind, 2nd Test: Cheteshwar Pujara claims appalling record in Centurion

Centurion: South Africa took a 2-0 lead in Freedom Test series on Wednesday after bowling out India for a paltry 151 in Centurion during the fourth innings of the final day. After leaving the visitors reeling at 35-3 on Day four, the South African bowling attack wrapped up the match just before the stroke of tea.

However, the situation could have been much different had Cheteshwar Pujara not departed early on. Touted as India’s most dependable current Test batsman, the classy right-hander had the hopes of the nation pinned on him as India aimed for a series revival. But their hopes were dented as early in the 27th over, with Pujara once again falling victim to a run-out dismissal.

In the process, the Saurashtra cricketer claimed a unique unwanted record. On Wednesday, he became the only Indian batsman to have been run out in both innings of a Test match. New Zealand captain Stephen Fleming was the last batsman to hold such an unenviable record, dating back to the year 2000.

With Parthiv batting at the striker’s end, Pujara fell short of his crease when he called for the third run. After Lungi Ngidi pegged the ball back in, AB de Villiers made a quick throw to Quinton de Kock at the stumps. Pujara, running to the danger end was inches short of his crease despite putting in a desperate dive.

Earlier during the first innings, Pujara departed back to the pavilion without opening his account as Ngidi’s direct hit made him run-out.