India vs New Zealand 2021-22: Pujara reveals how 'The Wall' Rahul Dravid's experience is key to success

Team India gets set to lock horns against New Zealand in a two-Test series, starting Thursday. It would be the side's maiden Test series under new head coach Rahul Dravid. He took charge after the 2021 ICC T20 World Cup and coached the side for the first time during the just-concluded three-match Twenty20 International (T20I) series that India won 3-0.

India would be desperate to win the Tests to set the pace in the ICC World Test Championship 2021-23, while it would also eye payback for the defeat against the side in the final of the 2019-21 edition earlier this year. Therefore, Dravid has a crucial role to play, while charismatic batter Cheteshwar Pujara has revealed that the former's experience would be precious for the side's success in the coming days.

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During a press conference, reports ANI, Pujara recalled that the side was down after losing the WTC final before bouncing back to form and giving a tough time to England. He feels that the side is high in confidence following the arrival of Dravid, which is good news for most of the players, especially the young guns, as they have worked together during his stint with India A and U-19 teams.

Pujara also feels that the senior players would benefit under Dravid's guidance, while he has already played under him during India A commitments. He asserted that everyone in the team is looking forward to working with him and giving their utmost best, besides performing to the fullest, while his coaching techniques would be a boon for the side.

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Pujara has struggled of late with his form. Speaking on the same, he affirmed that he has recently scored in the 50s, 80s and 90s. Although he is yet to hit a century of late, he is not bothered about it and would be focusing on the task at hand, i.e. batting as long as he can for the side, while scoring runs would eventually lead to a ton.