In a shift from the typical comparison involving Virat Kohli, Babar Azam, and Steve Smith, Cheteshawar Pujara chooses a Pakistani player as the standout spinner batter.

In the ever-flourishing world of cricket, where debates over cricketing greats are as common as a well-timed cover drive in the subcontinent, Cheteshwar Pujara's recent declaration has sent shockwaves through the cricketing fraternity. During a riveting discussion with ESPNcricinfo, the battle-hardened 103-Test warrior was asked to list batters who excel in spin bowling more than himself. And it was none other than Younis Khan—the former Pakistan captain and spin maestro—who caught Pujara's unwavering admiration.

"Younis Khan - I've gotta say, that guy's better than me," Pujara declared categorically, cutting through the frenzy of stats and fan feuds.

Stunningly, it wasn't the likes of Kohli, Smith, or Williamson who earned Pujara's accolade, but the legendary Pakistani batsman, illustrating Younis Khan's dominance in the subcontinent's most challenging conditions.

No Room for Debate with Khan

When big names like Kohli, Smith, and Williamson were proposed to Pujara, the Indian stalwart offered measured responses. On Kohli, he said:

"I'd call it a draw, man. His numbers show he's top-notch against spin."

While Smith and Williamson, both modern-day titans with impressive records against spin, received recognition for their consistency, Pujara kept a diplomatic tone, stating it's difficult to compare their abilities.

"They've all racked up runs, especially against India. Their numbers are fantastic... but it's bloody tough to compare myself against those spinners."

Yet, it was only Younis Khan who garnered his definitive endorsement, emphasizing the Pakistani legends uncanny mastery over the toughest spinning tracks.

Why Khan Earned the Glowing Tribute

Younis Khan's record against spin isn't just impressive; it's downright phenomenal. The right-handed batter amassed an astounding 4449 runs against spin in just 151 innings, boasting an average of a staggering 75.40. With graceful footwork and a rock-solid technique, he consistently dismantled the world's best spinners, employing calculated aggression and patience in equal measure.

Younis Khan's overall Test career, boasting a whopping 10,099 runs at an average of 52.06, including 34 centuries, cements his status as Pakistan's highest Test run-scorer. What truly sets Younis apart is his ability to adapt to various surfaces, dominate spinners on turning tracks, and anchor Pakistan's middle order for over a decade.

A Numbers Game: Spin Titans Compared

To give Pujara's statement some context, here's how the other modern spin greats stack up:

Though all these figures are impressive, none rival Younis Khan's 75.40 average against spin, showcasing his exceptional dominance over some of the world's best tweakers.

The Weight of Pujara's Endorsement

Cheteshwar Pujara isn't just any batsman offering casual praise; he's one of the finest players of spin in modern Test cricket. His stoic presence at No. 3, especially in Asian conditions, has seen him face the fiercest spin attacks, including Nathan Lyon, Moeen Ali, Yasir Shah, Herath, and more.

That's precisely why his support for Younis Khan holds significant weight. It's not just a humble admission; it's a master recognizing another master. In doing so, Pujara not only paid his respects to a formidable rival, but also added gasoline to one of cricket's everlasting debates: who is the superior player of spin?

"Cheteshwar Pujara, a respected 103-Test warrior, has declared without hesitation that Younis Khan is a better player of spin than himself, setting the cricketing world abuzz. This endorsement, coming from one of the finest players of spin in modern Test cricket, signifies Younis Khan's exceptional dominance over the toughest spinning tracks, effectively reigniting age-old debates about the supreme player of spin."

In a shift from the typical comparison involving Virat Kohli, Babar Azam, and Steve Smith, Cheteshawar Pujara chooses a Pakistani player as the standout spinner batter.