
25/08/2025
Cheteshwar Pujara, India’s rock-solid No. 3 batter, has announced his retirement from all forms of Indian cricket at the age of 37. Making his debut in 2010, Pujara went on to play 103 Tests and 5 ODIs, scoring 7,195 Test runs at an average of 43.60 with 19 centuries and 35 half-centuries. Known for his patience, technique, and ability to grind out bowlers, he became India’s most reliable Test batsman for over a decade. His last appearance for India came in the World Test Championship final against Australia in June 2023, though he continued playing domestic cricket for Saurashtra and county cricket for Sussex.
Throughout his career, Pujara was at the heart of India’s biggest Test triumphs. From his epic 153 against South Africa in Johannesburg to his double century in Ranchi, he often stood tall in pressure situations. His defining legacy, however, came in India’s back-to-back Test series wins in Australia. In 2018-19, his three centuries powered India’s historic victory, while in 2020-21, his courageous batting against a hostile Australian attack epitomized resilience. With 21,301 first-class runs, 66 centuries, and a reputation for unmatched grit, Pujara leaves behind a golden legacy in Indian cricket.