Cheteshwar Pujara: The Modern-Day Wall
Introduction
On August 24, 2025, Indian cricket bid farewell to one of its greatest Test batters, Cheteshwar Pujara, who announced his retirement from all forms of Indian cricket. Pujara, known for his grit, patience, and impeccable technique, leaves behind a legacy that has profoundly shaped Indian Test cricket over the past decade and a half. This blog pays tribute to his extraordinary career and contributions.
Cheteshwar Pujara: The rock of Indian batting.
Early Career and Rise to Prominence
Pujara made his Test debut against Australia in Bengaluru in 2010 and quickly established himself as a mainstay in India's batting lineup. He stepped into the void left by Rahul Dravid's retirement, making the number 3 position his own with his solid defense and unwavering focus :cite[9].
From his early days, Pujara demonstrated a unique ability to bat for long periods. He credited his time in age-group cricket for Saurashtra, where he often had to score big runs to support the team, for instilling in him the patience and responsibility that defined his career :cite[7].
Key Career Highlights
- 2012-13: Scored 206 not out against England in Ahmedabad and 204 against Australia in Hyderabad, cementing his place as India's premier Test batter :cite[3].
- 2018-19: Player of the Series in India's historic first Test series win in Australia, scoring 521 runs at an average of 74.42, including three centuries :cite[9]:cite[5].
- 2021: Played a crucial role in India's famous Gabba victory, enduring body blows to secure a draw and series win :cite[7]:cite[6].
- 2023: Played his last Test match in the World Test Championship Final against Australia, concluding with 7,195 runs in 103 Tests at an average of 43.60, including 19 centuries and 35 fifties :cite[9]:cite[1].
Pujara's monumental 2018-19 series in Australia remains one of the highlights of his career.
Playing Style and Technique
Pujara was often called a "throwback" cricketer for his classical approach to batting. His ability to leave the ball, wear down bowlers, and bat for long sessions was unparalleled. Former Australian wicketkeeper Alyssa Healy noted that bowlers often "stopped trying to get him out and tried to get the other end out because they just figured it was too hard" :cite[5].
Pujara himself attributed his success to his rigorous training routines and mental discipline. He often spoke about tracking the ball from the bowler's hand and maintaining concentration by watching the ball even when at the non-striker's end :cite[7].
Statistics Overview
| Format | Matches | Runs | Average | Centuries | Fifties |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Test Cricket | 103 | 7,195 | 43.60 | 19 | 35 |
| First-Class | 257 | 20,000+ | 51.42 | 61 | 79 |
| ODIs | 5 | 51 | 10.20 | 0 | 0 |
Pujara's statistics reflect his dominance in Test cricket and first-class matches :cite[1]:cite[9].
Tributes from the Cricket World
Following his retirement, tributes poured in from teammates, opponents, and cricket pundits. Sachin Tendulkar referred to him as the "architect" of India's historic win in Australia, while Virat Kohli once said, "People don’t understand his importance so much in this team and what a valuable player he is for us" :cite[6]:cite[10].
Gautam Gambhir tweeted: "He stood tall when the storm raged, he fought when hope was fading." Harsha Bhogle noted that Pujara played with "class and dignity" and gave his best for India :cite[6].
Life Beyond Cricket
Pujara plans to remain connected to cricket through commentary and potentially coaching. He has already ventured into broadcasting and expressed interest in mentoring young players :cite[3]. Additionally, he will receive a monthly pension of ₹70,000 from the BCCI, placing him in the highest pension bracket for former players :cite[1].
Conclusion
Cheteshwar Pujara's retirement marks the end of an era for Indian cricket. His unwavering dedication to the Test format, resilience against some of the best bowling attacks, and humble demeanor have left an indelible mark. As he steps away from the game, fans and cricketers alike will remember him as a true champion who embodied the spirit of Test cricket.
Pujara announced his retirement via social media, thanking fans for their support.
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