New Delhi: Cheteshwar Pujara, the stalwart of Indian Test cricket, announced his retirement from all forms of the Indian game on Sunday, bringing a close to an illustrious career defined by unwavering resolve and classic batting. The 37-year-old, known for his rock-solid technique and a modern-day successor to Rahul Dravid’s legacy at No. 3, shared the news through a heartfelt post on social media.
Pujara, who made his Test debut in 2010 against Australia, went on to represent India in 103 Tests, amassing 7,195 runs at an average of 43.60, including 19 centuries and 35 half-centuries. While his international career also included a brief stint in five ODIs, it was the red-ball format where he truly made his mark, establishing himself as a formidable force with his ability to wear down opposition bowlers with long, marathon innings.
In his retirement post, Pujara reflected on his journey, which began as a young boy from Rajkot with a dream to play for India. He expressed immense gratitude for the opportunities and experiences the game provided him.
“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,” Pujara wrote. He continued, “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 extended his thanks to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), the Saurashtra Cricket Association, and all the teams, franchises, and counties he represented. He also acknowledged the crucial support from his mentors, coaches, teammates, support staff, and fans, whose “passionate support and energy” he said was a constant motivator.
He ended his message by expressing his gratitude to his family—his parents, his wife Puja, and daughter Aditi—for their “innumerable sacrifices and steadfast support.”
Pujara’s retirement comes after his last international appearance in the 2023 World Test Championship final. Despite being out of the national side, he continued to showcase his form in domestic and county cricket. His legacy is cemented by historic Test series victories in Australia, where his resilience and monumental run-scoring were pivotal to India’s success.