Image Source : The Financial Express
On August 24, 2025, Cheteshwar Pujara officially announced his retirement from all forms of Indian cricket, closing the chapter on one of the most resilient and quietly heroic careers in the modern era. Known for his unwavering concentration, classical technique, and unflinching grit, Pujara’s departure marks the end of an era defined by patience and perseverance in the longest format of the game.
Career Highlights And Milestones
- Pujara played 103 Test matches for India, scoring 7,195 runs at an average of 43.60
- His tally includes 19 centuries and 35 half-centuries, with a highest score of 206 not out against England in Ahmedabad
- He also featured in five ODIs and 71 T20s, though his legacy remains rooted in red-ball cricket
- In first-class cricket, he amassed 21,301 runs from 278 matches, including 66 centuries and 81 fifties
Debut And Rise To Prominence
- Pujara made his Test debut in 2010 against Australia in Bengaluru, scoring a match-winning 72 that helped India seal a 2-0 series win
- He quickly became India’s dependable No. 3, succeeding Rahul Dravid with a similar temperament and technique
- His performances in home conditions were prolific, but it was his overseas contributions that truly defined his stature
Defining Series And Iconic Moments
- Pujara’s finest hour came during the 2018–19 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia, where he scored 521 runs across four Tests at an average of 74.42
- He faced 1,258 deliveries in that series, frustrating world-class bowlers and anchoring India’s historic maiden Test series win on Australian soil
- Another memorable moment was his stoic resistance in the 2021 Gabba Test, where he absorbed multiple body blows to help India clinch a series win against Australia
Retirement Announcement And Emotional Farewell
- Pujara shared his decision via social media, writing that wearing the Indian jersey and singing the anthem were moments he would cherish forever
- His message concluded with the words, “All good things must come to an end,” expressing gratitude for the journey and the support he received
- His last appearance for India came in the 2023 World Test Championship final against Australia at The Oval
Tributes From The Cricketing Fraternity
- Gautam Gambhir praised Pujara’s courage and resilience, calling him a fighter who stood tall when hope was fading
- VVS Laxman recalled Pujara’s grit at the Gabba, describing him as a cricketer who gave everything for the team
- Anil Kumble, Yuvraj Singh, and Virender Sehwag also lauded his selflessness, discipline, and contribution to Indian cricket
Legacy And Impact
- Pujara’s career is a testament to the value of temperament and technique in an era increasingly dominated by aggressive stroke play
- He was one of the last true Test purists, often compared to Sunil Gavaskar and Rahul Dravid for his ability to anchor innings and absorb pressure
- His retirement leaves a void in India’s batting lineup and signals a shift in the stylistic balance of the team
Conclusion
Cheteshwar Pujara’s retirement is not just the end of a career—it is the farewell of a philosophy. In a cricketing world that celebrates flair and speed, Pujara stood for endurance, discipline, and quiet excellence. His contributions will be remembered not just in numbers, but in the moments when he held the line, absorbed the storm, and gave India the platform to win. As he steps away from the field, his legacy will continue to inspire generations of cricketers who believe in the power of patience.
Sources: Mathrubhumi, The Hindu, MSN India, Khel Now, India Today, ICC, ESPNcricinfo.
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