Cheteshwar Pujara Announces Retirement from All Forms of Indian Cricket

Cheteshwar Pujara Announces Retirement from All Forms of Indian Cricket

Veteran India batter Cheteshwar Pujara has officially announced his retirement from all forms of Indian cricket, bringing the curtain down on a distinguished international career that spanned over a decade. The 37-year-old made the announcement on Sunday via a heartfelt post on X (formerly Twitter).

“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. “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 made his international debut in 2010 and quickly cemented his place as India’s most dependable No. 3 in Test cricket. Over 103 Tests, he amassed 7,195 runs at an impressive average of 43.60, including 19 centuries and 35 half-centuries. He also played five One Day Internationals for India between 2013 and 2014.

Renowned for his grit, patience, and classical technique, Pujara was a mainstay in India’s Test setup, particularly during challenging tours overseas. His contributions were instrumental in some of India’s most memorable Test victories, including historic series wins in Australia in 2018–19 and 2020–21, where his resilience against top-class pace attacks earned widespread praise.

Pujara's last appearance in Indian colours came during the ICC World Test Championship final against Australia at The Oval in June 2023.

While his career did not extend into T20 Internationals or prolonged ODI involvement, Pujara’s legacy is firmly etched in Indian cricket history as one of the finest Test batters of his generation. His unwavering focus and ability to grind down bowling attacks made him the modern successor to the classical mould of Indian batting.

As he bids farewell to Indian cricket, tributes are expected to pour in from across the cricketing world, celebrating a player who exemplified discipline, endurance, and humility.

Career Highlights – Cheteshwar Pujara

  • International Span: 2010–2023

  • Tests: 103 matches, 7,195 runs, Avg: 43.60, 19 hundreds, 35 fifties

  • ODIs: 5 matches

  • Final Appearance: WTC Final vs Australia, June 2023, The Oval