New Delhi, Aug 24 (HS): India’s batting bulwark Cheteshwar Pujara has announced his retirement from all forms of cricket, bringing the curtains down on a remarkable career defined by grit, patience, and perseverance. The 36-year-old cricketer made the announcement on Sunday through a heartfelt post on social media.
Tributes poured in from across the cricketing fraternity, with the BCCI, head coach Gautam Gambhir, Test skipper Shubman Gill, Rishabh Pant, and former stalwarts like Virender Sehwag, Yuvraj Singh, and Suresh Raina extending their best wishes.
The BCCI celebrated Pujara’s legacy in a social media post, highlighting his monumental contribution: “103 Tests, 7195 runs, 16217 deliveries faced, 19 centuries, 35 fifties—one of the bravest and finest to represent Team India in Test cricket. Congratulations, Pujara, and our best wishes for the road ahead.”
Head coach Gautam Gambhir saluted Pujara’s steely resolve, saying, “When the storm came, he stood firm. When hopes dimmed, he fought on. Congratulations, Pujji.”
India’s young Test captain Shubman Gill kept it short but heartfelt: “Thank you, Pujji bhai.”
Recalling some of India’s greatest overseas triumphs, Rishabh Pant cherished his partnerships with Pujara, writing: “From Sydney to Gabba, my best memories are batting alongside you. I will always treasure our stands and your immense contribution to Indian cricket.”
Former opener Virender Sehwag hailed Pujara’s unflinching determination: “Your patience, grit and hard work were inspirational. A memorable Test career you can be proud of. Best wishes for a fulfilling second innings.”
Ex-allrounder Yuvraj Singh lauded him as “a cricketer who gave his body, mind and soul to the game and the country.” Meanwhile, Suresh Raina congratulated Pujara and extended wishes to his family for the future.
A Rock-Solid Legacy
Pujara’s numbers reflect his unyielding character at the crease. Over a career spanning 103 Tests, he amassed 7,195 runs at an average of 43.60, with 19 centuries and 35 half-centuries, and a career-best score of 206 not out. Though his ODI stint was brief with just 5 matches, he carved one of the most commanding records in domestic cricket, scoring 21,301 runs in 278 first-class games, including 66 centuries and 81 fifties.
Renowned as the modern-day “Wall” of Indian cricket, Cheteshwar Pujara will be forever remembered for anchoring India’s most famous Test triumphs, particularly overseas, with his grit against the fiercest attacks.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar
