Indian cricket has bid farewell to one of its most dependable batsmen. Cheteshwar Pujara, long recognized as the backbone of India’s Test batting, has announced his retirement from international cricket. The right-handed batsman made the announcement through a heartfelt post on the social media platform X, marking the end of a career that spanned more than a decade.

The Rise of India’s New Wall

Pujara earned the title of India’s “new wall” after Rahul Dravid. He became the trusted No. 3 batsman in the Test team, known for his patience, discipline, and ability to withstand pressure. His solid defense often frustrated world-class bowlers. Pujara’s presence at the crease gave stability to India in challenging overseas tours as well as home conditions.

He made his Test debut in 2010 against Australia and soon established himself as a specialist for the longer format. While other batsmen leaned towards flashy shots, Pujara built his game on grit and determination. His batting reflected the old-school charm of Test cricket, reminding fans of classic resilience.

Career in Numbers

Cheteshwar Pujara played 103 Test matches for India. During this journey, he scored 7195 runs at an average of 43.60. His record includes 19 centuries and 35 half-centuries. Each of these innings often came in high-pressure situations, making his contribution invaluable.

While his main success came in Test cricket, Pujara also played five One-Day Internationals. However, he scored only 51 runs in those matches, showing that his strength remained in the longest format. He was never considered for T20 internationals, but his Test career ensured his name among India’s finest.

Pujara’s last international appearance came in 2023 at The Oval. He represented India in the World Test Championship final against Australia. Though the match did not bring glory for India, it marked the end of Pujara’s journey in international whites.

An Emotional Farewell

In his farewell note on X, Pujara wrote with deep emotion. He said wearing the Indian jersey, singing the national anthem, and giving his best in every match were experiences beyond description.

He reflected on his journey from Rajkot, describing himself as a small-town boy with big dreams. According to him, he never imagined cricket would give him so much. He received invaluable opportunities, unforgettable experiences, love from fans, and most importantly, the honor of representing India.

Pujara admitted that words were not enough to describe his feelings. However, he acknowledged that every good thing eventually comes to an end. With gratitude, he announced retirement from all formats of international cricket.

Gratitude to BCCI and Saurashtra Cricket

Pujara did not forget the institutions that shaped his career. In his statement, he thanked the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the Saurashtra Cricket Association. He credited them for giving him the platform to prove his talent.

He also expressed gratitude towards domestic teams, franchises, and county clubs where he played. His stints in English county cricket kept his form alive when he was out of the Indian side. Pujara acknowledged the role of his mentors, coaches, and spiritual guides. He said that without their guidance, reaching this stage would have been impossible.

Legacy in Indian Cricket

Cheteshwar Pujara’s career will always be remembered for his match-saving knocks. One of his most memorable performances came in the 2018-19 series in Australia. His centuries in Adelaide, Melbourne, and Sydney guided India to its first-ever Test series win in Australia.

Pujara faced more than 1250 balls in that series, wearing down Australian bowlers with his resilience. His ability to hold the crease for hours gave India’s middle order the confidence to attack. That series alone sealed his reputation as one of the finest Test batsmen of his generation.

Another defining performance came in the 2021 series in Australia. Pujara absorbed body blows in Brisbane, standing tall against hostile pace bowling. His grit helped India achieve the historic series win, remembered as one of India’s greatest overseas triumphs.

The Decline in Form and Exclusion

Despite his heroics, Pujara’s career faced challenges in later years. After 2020, his form dipped, and centuries became rare. Critics pointed to his slow strike rate, arguing that it hurt India in crucial phases.

Selectors eventually dropped him from the side, experimenting with younger batsmen. Pujara returned briefly but failed to cement his place again. His last innings in the World Test Championship final underlined the decline. By 2025, the selectors moved on, making his international comeback unlikely.

Why Pujara Was Special

Cheteshwar Pujara represented the traditional art of Test batting. He never chased popularity through big-hitting or flashy cricket. Instead, he showed the importance of patience, concentration, and technique.

In an era dominated by T20 cricket, Pujara reminded fans of classic Test values. He gave hope to purists who feared the decline of long-format specialists. His battles against top bowlers like James Anderson, Pat Cummins, and Nathan Lyon became legendary contests.

He stood out for his ability to play long innings without losing focus. His defensive technique was almost unbreakable on many occasions. Young cricketers often looked at him as an example of how to value the wicket.

A Role Model for Young Cricketers

Beyond numbers, Pujara’s discipline made him a role model. He avoided distractions and kept himself grounded. His fitness, mental strength, and dedication inspired many youngsters.

He also represented the dream of small-town players. Coming from Rajkot, he proved that talent can shine without privileged backgrounds. His story will continue to motivate upcoming players across India.

Fans’ Reaction to Retirement

As soon as Pujara announced his retirement, tributes poured in on social media. Fans, former cricketers, and journalists celebrated his career. Many called him the last guardian of classic Test cricket.

Supporters highlighted his Adelaide century in 2018 and his resistance in Brisbane 2021 as unforgettable moments. Some said that while he was not flashy, his contribution was priceless. Many described him as a true warrior who valued the team above himself.

Life Beyond International Cricket

Although he has retired from international cricket, Pujara is likely to continue playing in domestic tournaments and county cricket. His experience remains valuable for young teams. He may also consider coaching roles in the future, passing his wisdom to the next generation.

There is speculation that Pujara could join commentary panels or cricket academies. With his deep knowledge of the game, he could become a strong voice for Test cricket. His post-retirement journey will be followed with interest.

Cheteshwar Pujara’s retirement closes a significant chapter in Indian cricket. He was the backbone of India’s Test batting for more than a decade. His numbers may not be the flashiest, but his contribution was monumental.

From his gritty centuries in Australia to his calm presence at home, Pujara gave India stability. He leaves behind a legacy of discipline, determination, and love for Test cricket.

As fans bid farewell to this era, Pujara’s story will inspire future cricketers. The boy from Rajkot who became India’s wall will remain an unforgettable figure in the nation’s cricket history.