Cheteshwar Pujara’s retirement on Sunday (August 24, 2025) evoked an outpouring of admiration from the cricketing fraternity with former teammates and coaches saluting his grit, willpower and selflessness that outlined his Test profession.
Pujara, who performed 103 Tests and scored 7195 runs at a median of 43.60, introduced his retirement from all types of cricket, drawing curtains on a profession that epitomised resilience in the longest format.
“He stood tall when the storm raged, he fought when hope was fading. Congratulations Pujji,” India head coach Gautam Gambhir wrote on X.
Former India all-rounder Yuvraj Singh lauded Pujara’s dedication to the nationwide crew.
In Pictures | Cheteshwar Pujara, considered one of the foremost Test specialists in twenty first century, retires
Former Indian batter Cheteshwar Pujara introduced his retirement from all types of cricket on August 24, 2025. Pujara is most remembered for India’s Border-Gavaskar Trophy triumph in Australia in 2018 and 2020. He troubled Australia along with his strong defence and approach.
In the 2020-21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy collection, he scored 271 runs from 4 matches at a median of 33.87, with three fifties and a greatest rating of 77. In the ultimate Test at The Gabba, he endured a number of physique blows from Australian pacers on his physique, making the win much more memorable.
Pujara was all about classical batsmanship marinated in Test whites. Pujara has performed 103 Tests scoring 7,195 runs with 206 not out being his highest rating. He has scored 19 centuries together with 35 half-centuries.
Solidity at the crease and a way of dignity remained Cheteshwar Pujara’s particular attributes.
In top notch cricket, he has performed 278 matches scoring 21,301 runs with 352 being his highest. His common in first-class cricket is 51.82. He has scored 66 centuries and 81 half-centuries.
The crowd’s raucous affection was reserved for Tendulkar and Kohli, whereas for Dravid and his successor Pujara, there was muted respect. Incidentally Pujara made his Test debut in Dravid’s hometown Bengaluru in 2010, and that too in opposition to Australia, an opponent he typically defied by his storied profession.
Cheteshwar Pujara additionally has performed 71 T20 matches scoring 1,556 runs with 100 being his greatest.
In an age of glitz, mighty sixes and hyperbole, Cheteshwar Pujara was an exception. The old style batter was desirous to grind out assaults, took blows on his physique, and typically laid the basis for his extra effervescent team-mates like Virat Kohli to prosper.
Cheteshwar Pujara rings the five-minute bell earlier than the begin of the third day of the third Test match between India and England, at the Lord’s Cricket Ground, in London on July 12, 2025. collection. Anil Kumble, who coached India throughout a part of Pujara’s profession, hailed him as a real ambassador of the sport. “Congratulations on a fantastic career! You have been a great ambassador of this wonderful game,” he mentioned.
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“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!,” wrote Yuvraj.
Former India batter VVS Laxman recalled the defining second of Pujara’s profession, the series-clinching Test at the Gabba in 2021, when he endured a number of physique blows.
“From the time I first saw Pujara and his potential, it was brilliant to see that potential translating into performance.
“His braveness, grit and willpower stood out and the physique blows that he took in the Gabba Test we received in opposition to Australia symbolised Pujara the cricketer for me, prepared to provide all the things he has for his nation. Well carried out and want you a contented and joyous second innings,” Laxman wrote.
Anil Kumble, who coached India during part of Pujara’s career, hailed him as a true ambassador of the game.
“Congratulations on a improbable profession! You have been a terrific ambassador of this glorious sport. We are all pleased with all of your achievements on the cricket subject.
“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!!,” Kumble wrote.
Pujara’s long-time batting ally Ajinkya Rahane additionally paid a heartfelt tribute.
“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!” Rahane mentioned.
BCCI underlined Pujara’s contribution to Indian cricket.
“Cheteshwar Pujara’s career is a shining example of perseverance and selflessness. He personified the spirit of Test cricket. His ability to grind opposition attacks and his immense powers of concentration made him the bulwark of India’s batting,” BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia mentioned.
“He showed that it was possible to succeed at the highest level while staying true to traditional values of the game. His commitment to Indian cricket, both at the international and domestic level, has been outstanding. We thank him for everything he has given to the game and to the country,” he added.
Former India opener Virender Sehwag who additionally shared the dressing room with Pujara, additionally lavished reward on the champion batter.
“Congratulations on a fabulous test career Cheteshwar. 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,” Sehwag mentioned.
Former India all-rounders Suresh Raina and Irfan Pathan additionally chimed in with tributes.
“Cheers to a legend! It’s time to bid adieu to the incredible career of @cheteshwar_pujara You’ve given us countless memories,” Raina mentioned.
“Your grit has always spoken before your name. 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,” Pathan mentioned.