New Delhi, 24 August 2025 — Veteran Indian batter Cheteshwar Pujara has officially announced his retirement from all forms of Indian cricket. The 37-year-old Test specialist announced a heartfelt post on X (Twitter)
“Wearing the Indian jersey, singing the anthem, and giving my best every 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. With immense gratitude, I have decided to retire from all forms of Indian cricket,” Pujara wrote.
A Glorious Test Career
Pujara made his India debut in 2010 and went on to play 103 Test matches and 5 ODIs. Known for his solid defense and patience, he scored 7,195 Test runs at an average of 43.60, including 19 centuries and 35 half-centuries.
At home, he scored 3,839 runs at a stunning average of 52.58. For more than a decade, Pujara was India’s most reliable No. 3 batter, playing a key role in several memorable victories both at home and overseas.
His last Test appearance came during the World Test Championship final against Australia at The Oval in June 2023.
Memorable Innings
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First Test Century: Against New Zealand in Hyderabad (2012)
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Double Century vs England: Scored a match-winning 206 in Ahmedabad (2012)
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Heroic 153 in Johannesburg: Batted nearly six hours against South Africa (2013)
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Unbeaten 132 in Southampton: A standout knock against England (2018)
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Historic Australia Series (2018-19): Scored three centuries to help India win its first-ever Test series Down Under
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Bravery in Australia (2020-21): Faced 928 balls and absorbed multiple blows to guide India to a historic series win.
Pujara’s Legacy
Cheteshwar Pujara will be remembered as one of India’s finest Test cricketers. His ability to bat for long hours, soak up pressure, and anchor innings made him a pillar of India’s batting lineup.
Even after being dropped from the national team post-2023, Pujara continued to dominate domestic cricket for Saurashtra and impressed in the County Championship for Sussex.
Key Career Stats
| Format | Matches | Runs | Average | 100s | 50s |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tests | 103 | 7,195 | 43.60 | 19 | 35 |
| ODIs | 5 | 51 | 10.20 | 0 | 0 |
Conclusion
With Pujara’s retirement, Indian cricket bids farewell to a true warrior of the red-ball game. His grit, determination, and elegance at the crease will continue to inspire future generations.
