Cheteshwar Pujara, born on 25 January 1988 in Rajkot, Gujarat, emerged from a cricketing lineage, his father and uncle having played Ranji Trophy for Saurashtra and swiftly ascended the ranks with prodigious performances in youth cricket. He was the Man of the Tournament at the 2006 U-19 World Cup after scoring 349 runs at an average of 117.
Debuting in Test cricket in 2010, Cheteshwar Pujara became India’s quintessential No. 3, valued for his unbreakable technique, patience and composure. Over 103 Tests, he amassed 7,195 runs at an average of 43.60, including 19 centuries and 35 half-centuries. His highest Test score of 206 in Ahmedabad (2012)* and his marathon knock of 525 balls for 202 against Australia in Ranchi highlight his endurance at the crease, he remains the only Indian to face more than 500 balls in an innings.
Cheteshwar Pujara’s first-class record is even more staggering: 21,301 runs in 278 matches at an average exceeding 51, with 66 centuries, a testament to his domestic dominance. His contributions were pivotal to India’s historic Border-Gavaskar Trophy triumphs in Australia (2018–19; Player of the Series with 521 runs) and again in 2020–21.
On 24 August 2025, at age 37, Cheteshwar Pujara announced his retirement from all forms of Indian cricket. His decision, shared via X and in conversations, reflected a conscious and emotionally charged moment.
He tweeted, “Wearing the Indian jersey, singing the anthem, and trying my best each time I stepped on the field – it’s impossible to put into words what it truly meant. But as they say, all good things must come to an end, and with immense gratitude I have decided to retire from all forms of Indian cricket. Thank you for all the love and support!”
https://x.com/cheteshwar1/status/1959491168439538000
Pujara’s departure has triggered an outpouring of tributes. Legends like Sachin Tendulkar, Yuvraj Singh, VVS Laxman and Anil Kumble lauded his commitment and role as bedrock of India’s Test resilience.
Here are few reactions from the cricket fraternity:
VVS Laxman tweeted, “From the time I first saw Pujara and his potential, it was brilliant to see that potential translating into performance. His courage, grit and determination stood out and the body blows that he took in the Gabba test we won against Australia symbolised Pujara the cricketer for me, willing to give everything he has for his country. Well done @cheteshwar1and wish you a happy and joyous second innings.”
https://x.com/VVSLaxman281/status/1959514394788032656
Sachin Tendulkar wrote, “Pujara, it was always reassuring to see you walk out at No.3. You brought calm, courage, and a deep love for Test cricket every time you played. Your solid technique, patience, and composure under pressure have been a pillar for the team. Out of many, the 2018 series win in Australia stands out, it wouldn’t have been possible without your incredible resilience and match-winning runs. Congratulations on a wonderful career. Good luck for the next chapter. Enjoy your second innings!”
https://x.com/sachin_rt/status/1959555031788904718
Gautam Gambhir tweeted, “He stood tall when the storm raged, he fought when hope was fading. Congratulations Pujji @cheteshwar1”
https://x.com/GautamGambhir/status/1959504151446274193
Virender Sehwag’s tweet read, “Congratulations on a fabulous test career @cheteshwar1. Your grit ,determination and hardwork was inspiring and you can be very proud of what you have achieved. Best wishes for a memorable second innings.”
https://x.com/virendersehwag/status/1959502946334323098
Anil Kumble wrote, “Congratulations on a fantastic career!You have been a great ambassador of this wonderful game @cheteshwar1. We are all proud of all your achievements on the cricket field. You gave it your all for the team! It was a privilege to have worked with you and may you continue to shine in your second innings! Best wishes to you, Puja , Aditi and your Dad. Well Done!!”
https://x.com/anilkumble1074/status/1959494732222284099
Jinx aka Ajinkya Rahane tweeted, “Congratulations Pujji on a wonderful career. Loved every moment of playing alongside you and will always cherish our special Test wins together. Best wishes for the second innings!”
https://x.com/ajinkyarahane88/status/1959516751949115573
Irfan Pathan’s tweet read, “Your grit has always spoken before your name @cheteshwar1. Big congratulations on a wonderful career. Your aggression was visible in your defence and you’ve made India proud, Pujji. Wishing you the best for second innings.”
https://x.com/IrfanPathan/status/1959518403489640773
Venkatesh Prasad wrote, “An outstanding career @cheteshwar1. You must be mighty proud of what you achieved snd wish you a very happy second innings.”
https://x.com/venkateshprasad/status/1959497931603525974
Wasim Jaffer tweeted, “First of his name, last of his kind. Take a bow on a stellar career @cheteshwar1 You should be mighty proud of what you achieved donning the India cap. Congratulations and all the best for what’s to come”.
https://x.com/WasimJaffer14/status/1959503593402404931
This is certainly end of an era!
