Indian cricket woke up to an emotional moment on August 24, 2025, when Cheteshwar Pujara – the man often called the “Wall 2.0” – announced his retirement from all forms of Indian cricket. Known for his grit, patience, and classical Test batting, Pujara’s decision marks the end of an era where technique and temperament stood tall against aggression and flair.
A Career Built on Patience and Passion
When Pujara first walked out in 2010 wearing the Indian Test jersey, many saw him as the natural successor to Rahul Dravid. Over the years, he not only lived up to that expectation but also created his own identity as India’s most dependable No. 3 batter.
- 103 Tests played
- 7,195 runs scored
- 19 centuries
- Average: 43.60
What stood out was not the numbers alone, but how he made them. His long hours at the crease often turned matches in India’s favour, frustrating world-class bowlers who simply couldn’t find a way past his defence.
Domestic Career (First-Class, List A, T20)
| Format | Matches | Runs | Highest Score | Average | 100s | 50s |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| First-Class | 260 | 19,042 | 352 | 51.97 | 61 | 76 |
| List A | 123 | 5,252 | 158 | 54.05 | 11 | 32 |
| T20 (Domestic) | 71 | 1,356 | 69 | 23.76 | 0 | 8 |
Cheteshwar Pujara – Career Stats
International Career
| Format | Matches | Innings | Runs | Highest Score | Average | 100s | 50s |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Test | 103 | 176 | 7,195 | 206* | 43.60 | 19 | 35 |
| ODI | 5 | 5 | 51 | 27 | 10.20 | 0 | 0 |
| T20I | – | – | – | – | – | – | – |
A Reflection from the Heart
Pujara’s announcement resonated deeply with fans and teammates alike:
“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. 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. Thank you for all the love and support.”
These words offered a touching glimpse into the emotional journey of a cricketer who started as a boy from Rajkot with dreams and ended as a dependable No. 3 anchoring India’s fate in high-pressure Tests.
Memories That Will Stay Forever
Fans don’t remember Pujara for flashy sixes or aggressive strike rates. Instead, they remember him for his courage under fire.
- His 206 against England in Ahmedabad (2012)* announced his arrival as a long-format giant.
- His 202 in Ranchi against Australia (2017) remains one of the most patient, match-saving knocks in modern cricket.
- And who can forget the 56 at the Gabba (2021)? He wore countless blows from Australia’s fiery pace attack but didn’t flinch – laying the platform for India’s most historic overseas Test victory.
Each innings wasn’t just about runs, but about resistance, belief, and survival. For teammates, Pujara wasn’t just a batsman – he was a shield.
In an age where cricket became faster, flashier, and dominated by T20 leagues, Pujara was almost old-school. He didn’t chase fame with switch-hits or reverse sweeps. Instead, he built his game on leaving deliveries, blocking with soft hands, and tiring out bowlers.
Many called him “slow.” But Indian fans knew better – Pujara’s batting was timeless. He gave India what no one else could: stability. He reminded the cricketing world that Test cricket isn’t about how quickly you score, but how long you can fight.
Tributes from the Cricketing World
As soon as Pujara announced his decision, social media was flooded with heartfelt tributes. Former cricketers, teammates, and fans celebrated his journey.
Former India coach Anil Kumble summed it up beautifully:
“You have been a great ambassador of this game. Thank you for giving everything to Indian cricket.”
Even fans echoed the same thought – Pujara might not have been a headline stealer, but he was a match-saver.
Conclusion
Cheteshwar Pujara retires as one of India’s most respected Test cricketers – not because he was flashy, but because he was dependable. He will always be remembered as the man who made bowlers toil, who taught us the power of patience, and who proved that Test cricket is still the ultimate test of character.
As he walks away from Indian cricket, the silence he leaves behind is louder than words.
Thank you, Pujara – for being India’s silent warrior.
