Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, Aug 24: The Indian cricketing world united in tribute as Cheteshwar Pujara, one of the most resilient and dependable Test batters of his generation, announced his retirement from all forms of Indian cricket. With 103 Tests, 7,195 runs, 19 centuries, and a career average of 43.60, Pujara’s departure marks the end of an era defined by grit, endurance, and unshakeable resolve at the crease.
Former India captain and head coach Anil Kumble led the tributes, calling Pujara "a great ambassador of the game." Posting on X, Kumble wrote, “You gave it your all for the team! It was a privilege to have worked with you… Best wishes to you, Puja, Aditi, and your Dad. Well done!!”
Pujara, 37, played his final Test in the 2023 World Test Championship final against Australia. On Sunday, he took to social media to confirm his retirement, prompting an outpouring of admiration and gratitude from fellow cricketers, past and present.
Former opener Virender Sehwag lauded Pujara’s “grit, determination and hard work,” calling his career “fabulous.” Suryakumar Yadav affectionately wrote, “Happy Retirement to you pujju bhai,” while Ravichandran Ashwin kept it short and heartfelt: “Well done puji. Happy retirement.”
Widely respected for his old-school approach to Test cricket, Pujara earned praise for his patience and mental toughness, especially in challenging overseas conditions. His defiant knocks in Australia and England became the stuff of legend, often anchoring India’s innings through difficult spells.
Yuvraj Singh celebrated Pujara as “someone who always put his mind, body and soul for the country,” and added, “See you on the other side!” Wasim Jaffer, in his signature poetic style, called him “First of his name, last of his kind,” and encouraged him to “take a bow.”
Pragyan Ojha, Wriddhiman Saha, and Rahul Sharma also paid emotional tributes. Ojha wrote, “Your contributions will be remembered with respect and your kindness with gratitude,” while Saha recalled witnessing Pujara’s fighting spirit “in the toughest moments.”
Pujara’s career was defined not by flamboyance but by unbreakable focus, long hours at the crease, and his unmatched ability to wear down bowling attacks. He embodied the traditional virtues of Test cricket, often standing tall when others fell around him.
As the cricketing world bids farewell to one of its most unassuming giants, the message is clear: Cheteshwar Pujara may have played his last innings in India colours, but his legacy—built on patience, perseverance, and purpose—will endure in Indian cricket’s fabric for years to come.