On Sunday, veteran batsman Cheteshwar Pujara announced his retirement from an illustrious India career, having played 103 Tests but struggling to reclaim his spot in the past two years.
Debuting in 2010, the 37-year-old last represented India in the 2023 World Test Championship final, while staying active in domestic and county cricket in England.
“Wearing the Indian jersey, singing the anthem, and giving my all on the field meant the world to me,” Pujara shared on social media.
“Yet, as all good things end, I retire from Indian cricket with immense gratitude. Thank you for your love and support!”
He joins peers like former captains Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and spinner Ravichandran Ashwin, who have also retired from Test cricket within the past year.
Pujara amassed 7,195 runs, including 19 centuries, with an average of 43.60 over 103 Tests.
Though he played five ODIs, his steadfast defense and ability to play long innings made him invaluable in Test matches.
His skills shone in 2018-19, when India claimed their first Test series win in Australia, with Pujara scoring 521 runs in seven innings to earn player-of-the-series honors.
In the Adelaide Test series opener, Pujara batted for 11 hours, scoring 123 and 71, leading India to victory.
Tributes flowed in, with former India captain Anil Kumble praising Pujara.
“Congratulations on a remarkable career! You’ve been a wonderful ambassador for cricket, @cheteshwar1,” Kumble wrote on X.
“We’re all proud of your achievements. It was a privilege to work with you, and may your second innings be just as bright.”
