Ravi Shastri's Humorous Take on Cheteshwar Pujara's Batting Style

In a recent IPL 2026 commentary, Ravi Shastri humorously remarked on Cheteshwar Pujara's batting style, suggesting he would have resisted practicing the reverse-sweep. Pujara responded, explaining how such a shot wouldn't suit his traditional approach. Meanwhile, Sunrisers Hyderabad achieved a remarkable victory over Mumbai Indians, chasing down a massive total of 243 runs. This article delves into the light-hearted exchange and the thrilling match highlights.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 30, 2026, 18:41 IST

A Light-Hearted Commentary Moment

During a recent commentary session, former Indian captain and coach Ravi Shastri made a humorous comment regarding Cheteshwar Pujara, one of India's top Test batsmen. This playful banter took place while Shastri was observing Heinrich Klaasen's impressive switch-hit six during the IPL 2026 match between Mumbai Indians (MI) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at Wankhede Stadium.

Shastri's Playful Remark on Reverse-Sweep

On the JioHotstar show 'Champions Waali Commentary', Shastri jested that Pujara would have been resistant to practicing the reverse-sweep during his coaching years from 2017 to 2021. He quipped, "If I had asked you to practice the reverse sweep three years ago, you would have chased me down with a bat, right?"

Pujara's Perspective on the Shot

In response, Pujara explained that the reverse sweep did not align with his traditional batting approach. He humorously noted, "If I had attempted that shot in a Test match, I would have been bowled out. Executing that shot was quite challenging for me."

Pujara's Remarkable Test Career

With an impressive tally of 7,195 runs in 103 Test matches, Pujara is celebrated as one of India's finest Test batsmen. Renowned for his solid defensive technique and classic shot selection, he announced his retirement from all forms of cricket in August 2025.

IPL 2026: SRH's Thrilling Victory

In the IPL 2026 clash, Sunrisers Hyderabad triumphed over Mumbai Indians by six wickets, successfully chasing a daunting target of 243 runs. Key contributions came from Travis Head (76 runs off 30 balls), Heinrich Klaasen (65* off 30 balls), Abhishek Sharma (45 off 24 balls), and Salil Arora (30* off 10 balls), with SRH finishing the match with eight balls to spare.

Head and Abhishek set a solid foundation with a 129-run partnership for the first wicket in just 52 balls.

Mumbai's Strong Start

Earlier in the match, the Mumbai Indians posted a formidable score of 243/5 in 20 overs, thanks to Ryan Rickelton's explosive unbeaten 123 runs off 55 balls.