Cheteshwar Pujara, a veteran of Indian Test cricket, has announced his retirement from all forms of the game, marking the end of a remarkable career that spanned over a decade. The 37-year-old Pujara made the announcement on social media, leaving fans and fellow cricketers alike stunned and prompting an outpouring of tributes.
Pujara, known for his classic Test-match temperament, grit, and unwavering patience, represented India in 103 Test matches, amassing 7,195 runs at an average of 43.60. He stood as India's eighth-highest run-scorer in Test cricket, with 19 centuries and 35 half-centuries to his name. His contributions were instrumental in some of India's most memorable overseas victories, including the historic 2018-19 series win in Australia, where his marathon innings blunted the Australian pace attack.
Tributes have poured in from the cricket fraternity, with former teammates and fans lauding Pujara's contribution to Indian cricket. Gautam Gambhir, the current head coach of the Indian cricket team and a former teammate of Pujara, praised his resilience and fighting spirit. "He stood tall when the storm raged, he fought when hope was fading. Congratulations Pujji," Gambhir wrote on social media.
Yuvraj Singh, another former teammate, acknowledged Pujara's dedication to the country. "Someone who always put his mind, body and soul for the country! Many congratulations on an outstanding career Puji! See you on the other side!" he tweeted.
Anil Kumble, the former India captain and legendary leg-spinner, also congratulated Pujara on his fantastic career. "You have been a great ambassador of this wonderful game. We are all proud of all your achievements on the cricket field. You gave it your all for the team! It was a privilege to have worked with you and may you continue to shine in your second innings!" Kumble wrote.
Fans have also expressed their admiration for Pujara, with many describing him as the "modern-day wall of Indian cricket". They lauded his patience, grit, and the unforgettable memories he created on the field. One fan tweeted, "Thank you Pujara, Test cricket won't feel the same without you".
Pujara's retirement marks what many are calling "the end of an era" in Indian Test cricket. With other stalwarts like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Ravichandran Ashwin also nearing the end of their careers, some fans fear that India's once-experienced Test core is fast depleting.
Pujara made his international debut in 2010 and played his last Test match in 2023 against Australia in the World Test Championship final. While he also played five ODIs for India, his greatest contributions came in the Test format, where his resilience and determination made him a formidable opponent. He was instrumental in India's Test series wins in Australia in 2018-19 and 2020-21. In the 2018-19 series, he was named Player of the Series.
In his retirement message, Pujara expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to represent India. "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 wrote. "But as they say, all good things must come to an end, and with immense gratitude I have decided to retire from all forms of Indian cricket. Thank you for all the love and support!".
