Veteran batter Cheteshwar Pujara on Sunday announced his retirement from all forms of Indian cricket, bringing the curtain down on a storied career defined by resilience, patience, and rock-solid Test match batting.
Recalling his journey, Pujara said he grew up in Rajkot with the dream of donning the Indian jersey, never imagining the game would grant him such opportunities and experiences. “Wearing the Indian jersey, singing the anthem, and giving my best each time I stepped on the field – it’s impossible to describe in words,” he wrote in a heartfelt message on social media.
Pujara, 36, departs as India’s eighth-highest run-scorer in Tests, compiling 7,195 runs in 103 matches at an average of 43.60, including 19 centuries and 35 half-centuries. Known for his patience and classical technique, he often blunted world-class attacks before capitalizing with big scores, becoming a cornerstone of India’s batting order for over a decade.
Defining Moments in Career
- Debut Impact (2010): On his Test debut against Australia in Bengaluru, Pujara walked in ahead of Rahul Dravid at No. 3 and played a composed knock of 72, guiding India to victory.
- Historic Australia Triumph (2018-19): Pujara’s marathon effort of 521 runs across the series, facing 1,258 balls, earned him the Man of the Series as India scripted its first-ever Test series win in Australia.
- Backbone in Key Wins: He also played pivotal roles in the unforgettable 2020/21 series win in Australia and India’s home victory in 2023.
Though he featured in only five ODIs, Pujara’s contribution to Tests placed him alongside India’s elite.
Pujara thanked the BCCI, Saurashtra Cricket Association, his coaches, teammates, support staff, mentors, and family, acknowledging their roles in his journey. He also expressed appreciation to fans, sponsors, and colleagues who stood by him through his career.
After being left out of the Indian team following the 2023 WTC Final loss to Australia, Pujara transitioned into commentary. His thoughtful analysis during India’s drawn 2024 series in England earned him praise, opening doors for a strong post-playing career in the game.
Concluding his farewell, Pujara highlighted the sacrifices of his parents, wife Puja, and daughter Aditi, promising to devote more time to his family while beginning a new phase of life beyond professional cricket.