Sunday marked the end of an era in Indian cricket as Cheteshwar Pujara announced his retirement from all forms of the game. The Test stalwart took to social media to share an emotional post reflecting on his journey. Over a career spanning 103 Tests, Pujara amassed more than 7,000 runs, including 19 centuries and 35 half-centuries, cementing his status as one of India’s finest traditional batters.
Pujara’s dominance in the longest format was most evident during India’s tours of Australia. In the 2018-19 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, he played a central role in India’s historic series win, facing relentless pace attacks with composure and skill. He was named Player of the Series as India triumphed 2-1 under Virat Kohli’s captaincy.
Two years later, in the 2020-21 tour, Cheteshwar Pujara once again frustrated Australian bowlers with his grit and determination, epitomizing the anchor role at number three. Reflecting on his career, Pujara revealed how he endured repeated blows while batting, particularly during the 2021 Australia tour.
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“In moments like these, it is important to look at the bigger picture. You are batting for your team, billions are looking up to you. When you get hit on the body repeatedly, the pain becomes unbearable. That’s where mental toughness comes in,” he told The Indian Express.
🔥Cheteshwar Pujara the LEGEND🔥
I still remember Goosebumps innings at Gabba by Pujara.
📍Match: 4th Test vs Australia, Brisbane (Jan 15-19, 2021)
📊 Score: 56 off 211 balls (4th innings)
🥊 Body Blows: 10+ hits (helmet, fingers, ribs)
🎯 Impact: Survived 211 balls to set… pic.twitter.com/V2I5h5CUuf
— NoBall Opinions (@adi021996) August 24, 2025
He added that his strength came not only from discipline and training but also from faith. “I believe in God, and He gives me strength. In tough times, you need that spiritual power. I get strength that I cannot describe, but I get it,” Cheteshwar Pujara said, highlighting the resilience that defined his career.
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Statistically, Cheteshwar Pujara is the second-fastest Indian to reach 1,000 Test runs. His double century against Australia in March 2017 propelled him to a career-high No. 2 in the ICC Test rankings, and he became the 11th Indian to surpass 6,000 Test runs. Known for his patience, technique, and unflinching temperament, Cheteshwar Pujara leaves behind a legacy that will be remembered as the benchmark of classical Test batting in Indian cricket.
