HYDERABAD: Opener Murali Vijay, who was one of the two century makers for India against Bangladesh in the one-off Test here on Wednesday, said he really enjoys his partnership with Cheteshwar Pujara and has a good rapport with him.
Speaking to media at the end of the first day’s play here, Vijay said Pujara is a solid batsman and makes things easier for him.
“I was not aware of the record [Pujara set a new national record on Thursdsay in a First Class season, scoring 1605 runs from 21 innings eclipsing the previous record of 1604 in 28 innings by Chandu Borde]. All these show what it takes to be a great player,” said Vijay complimenting Pujara.
On the mix-up which almost saw him lose his wicket when he was on 35, the Indian opener said that it was one area which they needed to work on.
Talking about the pitch, Vijay said, “the wicket was two-paced in the morning session but looked slower in the afternoon.”
“Right now I am playing in only one format — Tests. So my objective is to play consistently and give consistent starts to the team,” added Vijay.
On captain Virat Kohli’s century, Vijay said, “It is a great sight to see the way he plays. He elevates the game to a different level. We are different characters but enjoy each other’s success.”
On what were the areas he focussed on after the England series, the free-stroking opener said the emphasis was more on which ball to leave and which one to play at. “I am really feeling very good and hope to carry on,” he added.
“It is good for the team to have a healthy competition for slots. Everyone knows what their role is. And, probably [Ajinkya] Rahane will tell how it felt to be back in the Indian team when he scores a century on Friday,” said Vijay.
“I don’t believe in winning or losing the toss. For me, it is the conditions out there that matter,” he added.
Bangladesh pacer Taskin Ahmed, meanwhile, felt that the wicket eased off considerably after the first hour when the ball moved a bit.
“It turned out to be a flat wicket as the day progressed. It has been a new kind of experience for all of us, especially for me,” Taskin said.
Questioned whether Bangladesh lost the momentum despite his early breakthrough [sending back K.L. Rahul in the first over], Taskin said they were up against much better batsmen against whom they had to bowl consistently well.
