Indian cricket bids farewell to one of its most resilient warriors, Cheteshwar Pujara, who announced his retirement from all forms of Indian cricket. Known for his grit, patience, and classical batting style, Pujara has been the backbone of India’s Test batting lineup for over a decade.
Pujara, often hailed as the modern-day “Wall” of Indian cricket after Rahul Dravid, made his Test debut in 2010 against Australia and went on to become one of India’s finest red-ball specialists. With over 100 Test matches to his name, he built his legacy through match-saving innings, particularly in overseas conditions where his ability to withstand pressure made him invaluable.
His unforgettable performances include the historic 2018–19 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia, where he scored over 500 runs across four Tests, playing a pivotal role in India’s first-ever Test series win on Australian soil. His determination at the crease and willingness to absorb pressure made him the ultimate team man.
Although Pujara did not find the same level of success in white-ball cricket, his contribution to Indian Test cricket remains unparalleled. Teammates, former cricketers, and fans have flooded social media with tributes, celebrating a career built on discipline, dedication, and sheer mental strength.
Announcing his retirement, Pujara thanked the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), his teammates, coaches, and fans for their unwavering support throughout his journey. He also expressed gratitude to his family, who stood by him during highs and lows.
While stepping away from Indian cricket, Pujara is expected to continue playing in county cricket and other leagues abroad, sharing his experience and love for the game with the next generation.
As one of India’s last true Test specialists, Cheteshwar Pujara leaves behind a rich legacy that will inspire young cricketers to value patience, perseverance, and the art of traditional batting. His retirement marks the end of an era in Indian Test cricket.