Cheteshwar Pujara, one of India’s most resilient Test batsmen, announced his retirement from all forms of international cricket on Sunday at the age of 37.
The right-handed batsman concluded a distinguished career spanning 103 Tests, where he accumulated 7,195 runs at an average of 43.60, including 19 centuries and 35 fifties.
He last featured for India in the 2023 World Test Championship final against Australia, finishing as the country’s eighth-highest run-scorer in Test history.
Former India captain Anil Kumble, who worked closely with Pujara, praised him for his dedication and spirit.
“Congratulations on a fantastic career!You have been a great ambassador of this wonderful game @cheteshwar1 We are all proud of all your achievements on the cricket field. 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 on X.
Congratulations on a fantastic career!You have been a great ambassador of this wonderful game @cheteshwar1 We are all proud of all your achievements on the cricket field. You gave it your all for the team! It was a privilege to have worked with you and may you continue to shine…
— Anil Kumble (@anilkumble1074) August 24, 2025
Messages from Teammates & Coaches
India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir lauded Pujara’s resilience: “He stood tall when the storm raged, he fought when hope was fading. Congratulations Pujji”
He stood tall when the storm raged, he fought when hope was fading. Congratulations Pujji 🇮🇳@cheteshwar1 pic.twitter.com/0Tj836uoO9
— Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) August 24, 2025
Jinkya Rahane, who shared numerous match-winning stands with him, added, “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!”
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!
— Ajinkya Rahane (@ajinkyarahane88) August 24, 2025
Tributes also poured in from current and former players. T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav wished him, “Wishing you the best for your next chapter, Happy Retirement Pujju Bhai”
Wishing you the best for your next chapter, Happy Retirement Pujju Bhai 🙏🏻🇮🇳 @cheteshwar1
— Surya Kumar Yadav (@surya_14kumar) August 24, 2025
Virender Sehwag hailed his determination, saying, “Congratulations on a fabulous test career @cheteshwar1. 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.”
Congratulations on a fabulous test career @cheteshwar1 .
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. pic.twitter.com/xtQZPnGo2W— Virrender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) August 24, 2025
Yuvraj Singh posted, “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!”
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! @cheteshwar1 pic.twitter.com/gbpscDGFZd
— Yuvraj Singh (@YUVSTRONG12) August 24, 2025
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