Cheteshwar Pujara Retires from International Cricket

Mumbai, Aug 24 – Cheteshwar Pujara, one of India’s finest Test specialists and a cornerstone of the batting lineup for over a decade, has announced his retirement from international cricket. The 36-year-old made the announcement through a heartfelt social media post, bringing the curtains down on an illustrious career that epitomized grit, resilience, and classical Test match batting.

Pujara’s last appearance for India came in the World Test Championship final against Australia at The Oval in June 2023. Over the course of his career, he amassed 7,195 runs in 103 Tests at an average of 43.60, including 19 centuries and 35 half-centuries. He retires as India’s eighth-highest run-scorer in Test cricket, carrying forward the legacy of Rahul Dravid in the pivotal No. 3 position.

“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. 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 wrote in his farewell note.

A Stalwart at No. 3

Since his debut against Australia in 2010, where he contributed a fighting 72, Pujara quickly earned a reputation as a dependable run-scorer, particularly in home conditions. His breakthrough came during the 2012/13 season when he notched up his maiden double hundred against England in Ahmedabad, cementing his place in the side.

Over the years, Pujara became India’s most reliable batter in challenging conditions, renowned for his ability to blunt hostile bowling attacks. He scored centuries across cricketing powerhouses including Australia, England, South Africa, and Sri Lanka, proving his adaptability on the toughest pitches.

Memorable Performances

Pujara’s defining contributions often came in high-pressure situations. His unbeaten 145 in Colombo against Sri Lanka, crucial knocks in Sydney (77) and Brisbane (56) during the famous 2021 series win in Australia, and his marathon batting displays against the Aussies stand out as career highlights. Against Australia alone, he scored 2,074 runs at an average close to 50, making him one of their most consistent tormentors.

Beyond Tests

While Pujara’s white-ball career never took off amid India’s star-studded lineup, he still enjoyed a formidable domestic record. In List A cricket, he averaged close to 57, underlining his adaptability and class.

Legacy

Known for his patience, discipline, and unflinching resolve at the crease, Pujara became the embodiment of classical Test match batting in a fast-paced cricketing era dominated by power-hitting. His contributions, particularly in India’s overseas triumphs, will be remembered as vital chapters in the country’s cricketing history.

As Pujara hangs up his boots, he leaves behind a legacy of determination and perseverance – a true custodian of India’s Test cricket ethos.