MUMBAI – Indian cricket said goodbye to one of its most dependable batters, as Cheteshwar Pujara officially retired from all forms of Indian cricket. The 37-year-old, often called the “new wall” following Rahul Dravid, stepped away after a 15-year journey built on determination, skill, and dedication to Test cricket.
Cheteshwar Pujara finished with 7,195 runs in 103 Tests at an average of 43.60, with 19 centuries and 35 half-centuries. He leaves a lasting example for future players. His choice to retire brought a mix of gratitude and sadness among cricket fans, as it closed a chapter marked by courage and selflessness.
Pujara shared his retirement news on X, drawing an outpouring of respect from players and supporters. “Wearing the Indian jersey and singing the anthem meant everything to me. I always gave my best,” he wrote. “But, as people say, every journey ends. With deep thanks, I am retiring from all Indian cricket.” His message captured the humility and pride that shaped his time in the game.
A Sturdy Career Rooted in Determination
Growing up in Rajkot, Cheteshwar Pujara dreamed of representing India. He made his Test debut in October 2010 against Australia in Bengaluru, scoring a determined 72 while batting at number three, just ahead of his hero, Rahul Dravid. After Dravid retired in 2012, Pujara secured his spot at number three, showing the same calm and patience as his predecessor.
Cheteshwar Pujara’s name became closely associated with one of India’s most successful periods in Test cricket, especially during their famous series wins in Australia. In the 2018-19 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, he piled up 521 runs, faced 1,258 deliveries, and struck three centuries, helping India secure a maiden series win in Australia.
Cheteshwar Pujara’s efforts earned praise, reminding many of Sunil Gavaskar’s legendary tour of the West Indies in 1971. At the Gabba in 2021, he absorbed a string of hostile deliveries to score a resilient 56, guiding India to a historic victory.
Ending his career with 7,195 runs, Pujara stands as India’s eighth-highest run-scorer in Test history. His best Test score, an unbeaten 206 against England in Ahmedabad in 2012, and 19 hundreds, put him alongside some of the best.
In first-class cricket, his 66 centuries are bettered only by Sachin Tendulkar, Sunil Gavaskar, and Dravid. Despite limited impact in ODIs and the IPL, with just five ODIs and 30 IPL appearances, he stayed true to Test cricket, even as T20 leagues became more popular.
Making the Choice: Cheteshwar Pujara’s Own Decision
Pujara’s decision surprised many, especially since news had recently suggested he would play another Ranji Trophy season with Saurashtra. Speaking to Aaj Tak, he explained that he had decided only a week before. “This was my own choice, and I think this is the right moment, especially for giving younger players a chance in domestic cricket.
At first, I thought I would play another Ranji season, but then I realized how important it is for the next group to get these opportunities early,” he said. His willingness to step aside for emerging players drew praise, though many wished for a farewell on the field.
Since the 2023 World Test Championship final, where Pujara scored 27 and 14, he was not picked again for the Indian Test side. Even with steady performances in domestic and English county cricket, selectors chose newer faces. Some criticized his slower scoring rate, especially when attacking play was often valued higher, but Pujara kept adding runs in the Ranji Trophy, always looking to perform.
Respect From the Cricket World
Tributes poured in as fans and players honoured Pujara’s loyalty and fighting spirit. Batting great Sunil Gavaskar, who gave Pujara a special cap for his 100th Test, described him as “one of those rare cricketers who always placed his country first.”
Gavaskar added, “He took plenty of hits for India but never turned away. Cheteshwar, you made the country proud.”
India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir shared on X, “He stood firm during the toughest times. Congratulations, Pujji.” Former captain Anil Kumble praised his approach to the game, while VVS Laxman recalled the courage Pujara showed at the Gabba, saying,
“The way he took blows showed the sort of cricketer he is – willing to do whatever it takes for India.” Commentator Harsha Bhogle added, “You played your cricket with respect and class. Indian supporters everywhere are cheering for you today.”
Fans offered mixed reactions. On X, @theskindoctor13 said, “He was a top-class Test batter, but maybe he played in the wrong era,” reflecting how modern Test cricket now expects much faster batting.
Meanwhile, Congress MP Shashi Tharoor spoke of a “sense of regret,” believing Cheteshwar Pujara deserved a farewell on the field that matched his achievements. Clips of his long innings flooded social media, with many expressing disappointment that his final game never came.
Plans after retirement are already coming together for Cheteshwar Pujara. He has worked as a commentator during the recent Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy and is open to becoming a batting coach, hoping to share his technique with young players. “I’m considering every option,” he told The Tribune, suggesting a future in either coaching or commentary.
As Indian cricket moves forward, with senior players like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma also finishing their Test careers this year, Cheteshwar Pujara’s retirement closes a bright chapter for the team.
Yet, Cheteshwar Pujara’s story lives on, reminding others of the strength, focus, and love for Test cricket that defined his journey. As he starts this new phase, the cricket community celebrates a player who has always put the team first.
