Veteran batter Cheteshwar Pujara on Sunday announced his retirement from all forms of Indian cricket, bringing the curtains down on a remarkable career that spanned over a decade. The 37-year-old shared the news on his official ‘X’ handle, calling the decision one of gratitude and reflection.
“Wearing the Indian jersey, singing the anthem, and giving 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. Thank you for all the love and support,” Pujara wrote.
Pujara made his international debut in 2010 against Australia in Bengaluru and went on to play 103 Tests, scoring 7,195 runs at an average of 43.60. His tally included 19 centuries and 35 half-centuries, with a career-best unbeaten 206.
He is best remembered for his heroic performances in India’s Border-Gavaskar Trophy triumphs in Australia in 2018–19 and 2020–21. During the 2018 series, he top-scored with 521 runs, including three centuries, laying the foundation for India’s historic 2-1 victory. In the 2020–21 series, his gritty knocks, including a defiant 77 at The Gabba despite being struck repeatedly by Australian pacers, epitomised his resilience and paved the way for India’s famous win.
Beyond the international arena, Pujara left an indelible mark in domestic cricket, amassing 21,301 runs from 278 first-class matches, decorated with 66 centuries and 81 half-centuries—cementing his place among the game’s greats.
Regarded as the backbone of India’s Test batting for over a decade, Pujara’s legacy will forever be remembered as one of determination, patience, and unmatched grit at the crease.
