Indian cricket stalwart Cheteshwar Pujara announced his retirement from all forms of the game on Sunday, bringing the curtain down on a distinguished career that spanned 103 Test matches. In a heartfelt statement posted on social media platform X, the 37-year-old expressed the profound honor he felt representing his country, stating, “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, “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.”
Pujara’s Test career was one of immense substance and resilience. Making his debut against Australia in Bengaluru in 2010, he seamlessly filled the crucial number three batting spot following the retirement of the great Rahul Dravid. Over 103 matches, the technically proficient right-hander amassed 7,195 runs at an impressive average of 43.60, including 19 centuries and 35 half-centuries. His career was defined by epic performances against Australia, most notably being named Player of the Series in India’s historic first Test series win on Australian soil in 2018-19, where he scored a monumental 521 runs.
Beyond his international exploits, Pujara was a titan of the domestic game. He made his first-class debut for Saurashtra in 2005 and represented his state team through the most recent Ranji Trophy season. While his Test credentials were undeniable, his brief white-ball career for India was limited to just five One-Day Internationals played between 2013 and 2014. His final appearance for India came in the World Test Championship final against Australia in 2023.
Reflecting on his journey, Pujara shared, “As a little boy from the small town of Rajkot, along with my parents, I set out to aim for the stars and dreamt to be a part of the Indian cricket team.” He extended his gratitude to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), the Saurashtra Cricket Association, and the various franchises and English counties he represented, thanking fans worldwide for their unwavering love and support throughout his remarkable journey.
