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Sports
Pujara urges Akash Suthar to stay true to his game, not bend for IPL pressure
✍️ The Indian Express
🗓 22 Aug 2026, 02:39 PM
👁 7
Veteran batsman Cheteshwar Pujara advised young prospect Akash Suthar to maintain his natural style rather than altering it to suit IPL expectations.
Veteran Test opener Cheteshwar Pujara recently addressed emerging cricketer Akash Suthar, cautioning him against reshaping his technique solely to meet the demands of the Indian Premier League. Pujara emphasized that a player’s long‑term growth depends on preserving the core strengths that earned them recognition at the domestic level.
The senior batsman highlighted that the IPL, while lucrative, often rewards flamboyance over fundamentals. He urged Suthar to focus on consistency and adaptability within his own game plan, rather than chasing short‑term hype that could undermine his development.
Suthar, a promising talent who has impressed in recent Ranji Trophy outings, is reportedly on the radar of several franchise scouts. Pujara’s counsel serves as a reminder that maintaining authenticity on the field can be more valuable than conforming to fleeting trends.
Cricket analysts noted that such mentorship is common among senior players, who seek to shield newcomers from the intense commercial pressures of franchise cricket. The conversation underscores the broader debate about balancing individual style with the entertainment demands of the IPL.
The senior batsman highlighted that the IPL, while lucrative, often rewards flamboyance over fundamentals. He urged Suthar to focus on consistency and adaptability within his own game plan, rather than chasing short‑term hype that could undermine his development.
Suthar, a promising talent who has impressed in recent Ranji Trophy outings, is reportedly on the radar of several franchise scouts. Pujara’s counsel serves as a reminder that maintaining authenticity on the field can be more valuable than conforming to fleeting trends.
Cricket analysts noted that such mentorship is common among senior players, who seek to shield newcomers from the intense commercial pressures of franchise cricket. The conversation underscores the broader debate about balancing individual style with the entertainment demands of the IPL.