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0 By Study Smart India News Desk | Published: August 25, 2025
In a moment that marks the end of an era for Indian cricket, Cheteshwar Pujara, one of the country’s most steadfast Test batsmen, announced his retirement from all forms of Indian cricket on August 24, 2025. The 37-year-old, known for his unyielding patience and rock-solid technique, leaves behind a legacy that will inspire generations of cricketers and fans alike. This article traces the remarkable journey of Pujara, a true Test cricket purist, whose contributions redefined resilience in the modern game.
A Dream Born in Rajkot
Hailing from Rajkot, Gujarat, Cheteshwar Pujara’s love for cricket was nurtured under the guidance of his father, Arvind, and uncle, Bipin, both former Ranji Trophy players for Saurashtra. From a young age, Pujara displayed an extraordinary knack for batting, scoring a triple century in Under-14 cricket and a double century against England in Under-19 cricket. These early feats hinted at the monumental career that awaited him.
Pujara’s journey was not without personal challenges. At 17, he lost his mother, Reema, to cancer, a loss that shaped his resolve to honor her memory through his cricketing achievements. His father’s coaching and unwavering support laid the foundation for a career built on discipline and dedication. After completing his BBA from J.J. Kundalia College, Pujara’s focus remained firmly on cricket, particularly the longer format.
Rising Through the Ranks
Pujara’s first-class debut for Saurashtra in 2005 was the beginning of a prolific domestic career. His ability to pile on runs, often on the flat tracks of Rajkot, earned him a reputation as a run-machine, though critics initially dismissed his feats due to the batting-friendly conditions. However, Pujara silenced doubters with consistent performances, including a record-breaking 1,605 runs in the 2016-17 Indian first-class season, surpassing Chandu Borde’s long-standing mark.
His international breakthrough came in October 2010, when he debuted for India in a Test match against Australia in Bengaluru. Batting at No. 3 ahead of the legendary Rahul Dravid, Pujara scored a composed 72 in a tricky chase, showcasing his ability to handle pressure. This innings was a glimpse of the resilience that would define his career.
The Wall of Indian Cricket
Often compared to Rahul Dravid for his dogged mindset, Pujara became India’s anchor at No. 3, a position where he amassed 6,488 runs in 94 matches, making him the second-highest run-scorer for India at that slot, behind Dravid. His Test career spanned 103 matches, during which he scored 7,195 runs at an average of 43.60, including 19 centuries and 35 fifties. His highest score of 206 not out against England in Ahmedabad in 2012 remains a testament to his ability to bat for long periods.
Pujara’s defining contribution came during India’s historic Test series win in Australia in 2018-19. Facing a formidable Australian pace attack, he scored 521 runs off 1,258 balls, including three centuries, earning the Player of the Series award. His marathon innings frustrated bowlers and set the stage for India’s first-ever Test series triumph Down Under. In the 2020-21 series, his gritty performances, including a heroic 77 off 205 balls in Sydney, helped India secure a draw and paved the way for a memorable victory at The Gabba.
A Career of Records and Resilience
Pujara’s first-class career is equally illustrious, with 21,301 runs at an average of 51.82, including 66 centuries. He holds the distinction of being the first Indian to score three triple centuries in first-class cricket, a feat later matched by teammate Ravindra Jadeja. His 12 double centuries in first-class cricket surpassed Vijay Merchant’s Indian record, cementing his status as a red-ball giant.
Despite his Test prowess, Pujara’s limited-overs career was brief, with only five ODIs for India, where he scored 51 runs. A knee injury early in his career curtailed his white-ball aspirations, but his focus on Test cricket made him a specialist in an era dominated by T20 leagues.
The Final Chapter
Pujara’s last Test appearance was in the 2023 World Test Championship final against Australia at The Oval, where India fell short. Despite consistent domestic performances, including a double century for Saurashtra in the 2024 Ranji Trophy and 501 runs for Sussex in County Championship, he was overlooked by selectors favoring younger talent. In May 2025, speculation about a potential recall for the England tour surfaced, but the BCCI’s focus on the future signaled the end of his international journey.
On August 24, 2025, Pujara took to social media to announce his retirement, expressing gratitude to the BCCI, Saurashtra Cricket Association, his family, teammates, and fans. “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,” he wrote. “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.”
A Legacy Beyond Numbers
Pujara’s retirement follows those of Indian stalwarts Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Ravichandran Ashwin, marking a significant transition for Indian cricket. His teammates, including Jasprit Bumrah and KL Rahul, paid heartfelt tributes, with Bumrah calling him “Pujji bhai” and Rahul lauding his grit. Fans and analysts echoed similar sentiments, with posts on X describing him as “India’s wall” and a symbol of Test cricket’s enduring spirit.
Beyond his runs and records, Pujara’s legacy lies in his commitment to Test cricket’s traditional values. In an age of aggressive batting and T20 dominance, he championed patience and technique, proving that grit could triumph over flair. His ability to absorb pressure, take blows, and wear down bowling attacks earned him the nickname “The Wall 2.0.”
Looking Ahead
While Pujara has stepped away from Indian cricket, his journey continues off the field. He has already transitioned into commentary, joining the BBC Test Match Special team for the India-England series in June 2025 and working with networks like ESPNcricinfo. His insights, drawn from years of battling the world’s best bowlers, will keep him connected to the game he loves.
As Pujara embarks on this new chapter, spending more time with his wife, Puja, and daughter, Aditi, Indian cricket fans will remember him as a beacon of resilience. His career serves as a lesson for young cricketers: success is built on hard work, perseverance, and an unwavering love for the game.
Study Smart India salutes Cheteshwar Pujara for his extraordinary contributions to Indian cricket and wishes him the best in his future endeavors.
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