Cheteshwar Pujara Bids Farewell to Indian Cricket
In a surprising announcement on Sunday, Cheteshwar Pujara officially announced his retirement from all forms of Indian cricket. Widely regarded as one of India’s finest Test specialists, he played a vital role in the 2018–19 and 2020–21 Test series in Down Under, Australia.
Cheteshwar Pujara is India's best Test specialist after Rahul Dravid.
His last Test match was in 2023 against Australia in the England World Test Championship final.
A Farewell Carved in Values
On his retirement statement, Pujara, reviewing it on social media, wrote, “Wearing the Indian jersey, singing the anthem, and trying my best each time I stepped on the field—it’s impossible to put into words what it truly meant.” He added with emotion, “But as they say, all good things must come to an end, and with immense gratitude, I have decided to take retirement from all formats of Indian cricket. Thank you for all the love and support!”
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Tributes Poured In from Indian Cricketing Legends
The cricketing fraternity responded with an outpouring of admiration:
- Sunil Gavaskar hailed Pujara as “one of the old-school cricketers who put India above everything else,” applauding his selflessness and perseverance.
- Anil Kumble lauded Pujara’s dedication, calling him “a great ambassador of the sport” and expressing pride at having worked with him.
- Ravi Shastri described him as a “real warrior”, whose runs were essential to India’s Test success overseas.
- Sachin Tendulkar emphasised the comfort of watching Pujara’s dependable No. 3 presence and praised his role in India’s historic 2018–19 Australia series win.
- Teammates such as R. Ashwin and Ajinkya Rahane expressed deep gratitude for the camaraderie and shared battles.
However, not all commentary was celebratory. Shashi Tharoor, a Member of Parliament, voiced disappointment that Pujara didn’t receive a more ceremonial farewell, stating, “He deserved a dignified farewell.”
Saurashtra coach Karsan Ghavri echoed similar sentiments, attributing the retirement partly to prolonged neglect by selectors and lamenting the absence of a proper send-off.
The Legacy Beyond Numbers
Pujara’s influence extended well beyond his international figures. With a stellar first-class record of over 21,300 runs, he remains a titan of domestic cricket.
Known as India’s “wall”, his technique and temperament were foundational to victories in Australia and England—nations where Indian batsmen historically struggled.
His five unforgettable knocks—including a double century in Ahmedabad (206*), his Ranchi double ton against Australia, and gritty displays at Adelaide and the Gabba—continue to be etched in cricket lore.
Looking Ahead: The Next Chapter
Although Pujara has officially stepped away from national duties, he's signalled that he's not stepping away from cricket altogether. The Saurashtra veteran confirmed his availability for the upcoming Ranji Trophy 2025–26 season, showing he still has runs left in the domestic arena.
As one expert put it, while retirement closes one door, it may be opening another—perhaps in coaching, commentary, or mentorship.
By the Numbers
Career Summary
- Tests: 103
- Total Test Runs: 7,195
- Test Batting Average: 43.60
- Test Centuries / Fifties: 19 / 35
- ODIs: 5 matches, 51 runs (Avg. 10.20, HS 27)
- First-Class Runs: Over 21,300
Teams & Leagues
He was also part of the IPL, Ranji Trophy, and English County Cricket. He played for Saurashtra, Kolkata Knight Riders, Royal Challengers Bangalore, Kings XI Punjab, Derbyshire, Yorkshire, Nottinghamshire, Chennai Super Kings, and Sussex.
Home & Away Centuries
He has scored 10 centuries at home and 9 away. India won 13, lost 2, and had 4 draws. He was a great match-winner for the Indian cricket team.
Opposition Highlights
Most of his memorable centuries came against Australia, England, and Sri Lanka.
Debut & Role
Cheteshwar Pujara made his Test debut against Australia in Bangalore in 2010. After the retirement of Rahul Dravid, he replaced the No. 3 spot and became the new wall of the Indian cricket team.
An Era Ends
Cheteshwar Pujara’s retirement marks the end of an era defined by calm resilience, unwavering concentration, and an old-school devotion to cricket’s longest form. He may no longer don the blue jersey, but his legacy—crafted in patience, discipline, and quiet excellence—will endure as a lodestar for audiences and upcoming cricketers alike.