Follow UsCheteshwar Pujara, one of India’s greatest Test batters of all time, announced his retirement from all forms of Indian cricket on August 24 (Sunday). The 37-year-old said he felt the time was right to step aside and allow the “next generation to establish themselves.”
Pujara, who made his Test debut in October 2010 against Australia, went on to play 103 matches for India, scoring 7195 runs at an average of 43.60. Renowned for his grit, patience, and resilience, he became the backbone of India’s batting line-up for over a decade. The veteran last featured for India in June 2023.
“Firstly, I spoke to my family, friends, some cricketers, and a few people I regularly consult. The most important thing for me was to create opportunities for younger players. For any sportsperson, there comes a time to move on, and I felt this was the right moment to allow the next generation to establish themselves,” Pujara told TOI.
“At the same time, I’ve been active in media work, which I’ve enjoyed. So even though I’m not playing anymore, I’m still connected with the game, which is a good feeling. I haven’t made concrete plans yet. For now, I will continue with broadcasting, which I enjoy. If coaching opportunities come up in the future, I’ll consider them.”
Pujara will be remembered most for his pivotal role in India’s historic Test series triumphs in Australia. He was the cornerstone of India’s first-ever series win Down Under in 2018-19, amassing runs with his trademark determination. He was equally vital in the 2020-21 Gabba win, where a depleted Indian side stunned Australia. His Test average in Australia stands at an impressive 47.28.
“Yes, 2018 was historic our first Test series win on Australian soil. I would also highlight the 2017 series in India. Australia started strongly by winning the first Test, but we fought back to win the second. The Ranchi and Dharamshala Tests that followed made it a very memorable series. And of course, the 2020-21 win at the Gabba with a depleted side is right up there. That was one of the best victories I’ve been a part of,” Pujara recalled.
During his career, Pujara faced the world’s best bowlers. While Nathan Lyon dismissed him the most times (13), Pujara named four seamers as the toughest challenges. “Across my career, Dale Steyn, Morne Morkel, James Anderson, and Pat Cummins have been among the most challenging bowlers I’ve faced,” he said.
Asked about the best captain he played under, Pujara credited each leader he played for. “It’s difficult to single out one. I began my Test journey under Mahi bhai (MS Dhoni), then played under Virat and Rohit. I also had the chance to play for Dada (Sourav Ganguly) in the IPL, and Ajinkya (Rahane) led us in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in 2016-17. Each captain had his own strengths, and I enjoyed playing under all of them.”
The No. 3 position was synonymous with Pujara’s name for years. While he admitted it’s too early to make a definitive call, he pointed out a few names. “It’s hard to say right now. Sai Sudharsan has started batting at No. 3 and has shown good potential. Karun Nair has also been tried, though he is currently batting at No. 5. We’ll need to give these players time to settle before making a judgement.
“Youngsters like Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Sai, Shubman Gill, and Rishabh Pant are all shaping the new Indian batting order. The middle and lower order, with players like Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar, have also contributed well. The team is in good hands, and I hope this continues.”