Cheteshwar Pujara hits 17th first-class double hundred

• Cheteshwar Pujara's 17th first-class double hundred in the Ranji Trophy places him in joint-fourth position on the list of batters 
•  Pujara's innings, part of Saurashtra's Ranji Trophy 2024 opener against Jharkhand, helped the team surpass the 500-run mark 
• The 35-year-old batter, who has been out of contention from the national Test squad, aims for a comeback with a strong showing in the Ranji Trophy

Cheteshwar Pujara showcased his prowess in domestic cricket by scoring his 17th first-class double hundred during Saurashtra's Ranji Trophy 2024 opener against Jharkhand. The impressive knock not only guided Saurashtra past the 500-run mark but also helped them secure a substantial lead of over 400 runs in the first innings by the second session of Day 3. Pujara's achievement places him joint-fourth on the list of batters with the most first-class double centuries, alongside Mark Ramprakash.

Pujara's remarkable performance in the Ranji Trophy opener, where he registered his 8th double hundred in the tournament, positions him just behind Paras Dogra, who holds the record with nine. The 35-year-old, who has been out of the national Test squad since the ICC WTC Final in June 2023, aims to make a strong comeback. With three first-class triple-centuries to his name, Pujara's consistent Ranji Trophy performance could potentially pave the way for his return to the Indian team for the upcoming five-Test series against England.