Cheteshwar Pujara Retires: A Tribute to His Stellar Cricket Career
Pujara's Retirement Announcement
On Sunday, Cheteshwar Pujara announced his retirement from all formats of Indian cricket, receiving heartfelt congratulations from India's head coach Gautam Gambhir and several former cricketers. Pujara ranks as the eighth-highest run scorer for India in Test cricket, having accumulated 7,195 runs in 103 matches at an average of 43.60, which includes 19 centuries and 35 half-centuries, with a personal best of 206*.
Gautam Gambhir's Praise
Gautam Gambhir took to X to express his admiration, stating, "He stood tall when the storm raged, he fought when hope was fading. Congratulations, Pujji."
Pujara's International Journey
Making his international debut against Australia in Bengaluru on October 9, 2010, Pujara is particularly remembered for his contributions during India's Border-Gavaskar Trophy victories in Australia in 2018/19 and 2020/21, where his defensive skills and technique posed significant challenges to the Australian team.
Tributes from Fellow Cricketers
Virender Sehwag commended Pujara's remarkable Test career, stating, "Your grit, determination, and hard work were inspiring. Best wishes for a memorable second innings."
Yuvraj Singh also shared his thoughts, saying, "Someone who always put his mind, body, and soul for the country! Many congratulations on an outstanding career, Puji! See you on the other side!"
Venkatesh Prasad added, "You must be mighty proud of what you achieved and wish you a very happy second innings."
Wasim Jaffer honored Pujara's legacy, saying, "First of his name, last of his kind. Take a bow on a stellar career @cheteshwar1."
Suresh Raina also congratulated him, wishing him luck for the future.
Pujara's Domestic Achievements
Beyond his international success, Pujara was a domestic cricket legend, amassing 21,301 runs in 278 first-class matches at an impressive average of 51.82. His first-class career includes 66 centuries and 81 half-centuries, with a highest score of 352.