Test Cricket Stalwart Cheteshwar Pujara Retires From Indian Cricket
Veteran batter Cheteshwar Pujara has announced his retirement from all forms of Indian cricket, ending a distinguished 15-year career. Known for his resilience and classic technique, Pujara played 103 Test matches, amassing 7,195 runs, and was instrumental in India's historic back-to-back series victories in Australia. The 37-year-old said he felt it was the right time to step aside to create opportunities for younger players in domestic cricket. Tributes have poured in from teammates and fans.
Unpacked:
Pujara played 103 Tests, scored 7,195 runs, and was pivotal in India’s Test wins abroad, especially in Australia. He is the only Indian batter to face over 500 balls in an innings, has 19 Test centuries, and ranks behind only Rahul Dravid as India’s top No. 3 run-scorer.
Pujara’s resilience and long innings blunted top Australian bowlers, especially during the 2018–19 and 2020–21 series. His ability to occupy the crease and score crucial runs provided stability, helping India achieve rare back-to-back series wins in Australia.
Pujara stated he wanted to create opportunities for younger players. He was dropped from the Indian team after a poor run, including the 2023 World Test Championship Final, and last played for India in 2023, which likely contributed to his timing.
Pujara was known for his patience, defensive technique, and ability to wear down bowlers. Unlike more aggressive modern batters, his traditional approach made him a reliable anchor, earning comparisons to Rahul Dravid and making him a bulwark in India’s Test lineup.