Cheteshwar Pujara Announces Retirement from International Cricket (Social Media)
Sports News: Cheteshwar Pujara, one of the most reliable batsmen in Indian Test history and often referred to as the “new wall” after Rahul Dravid, has brought the curtains down on his international career. On Sunday, the Saurashtra cricketer announced his retirement through a heartfelt post on social media, officially closing a remarkable chapter in Indian cricket.
Since making his debut in 2010, Pujara has become the backbone of India’s Test batting line-up. Across 103 Test appearances, he amassed 7,195 runs at an impressive average of 43.60, with 19 centuries and 35 half-centuries to his credit. His consistency at number three provided India stability in both home and overseas conditions.
Though Pujara also featured in limited-overs cricket, his role remained restricted. In five One-Day Internationals, he managed 51 runs, never quite cementing his place in the shorter formats. His final appearance for India came in the 2023 World Test Championship final against Australia at The Oval, marking the end of his international journey.
In announcing his retirement, Pujara reflected on his career with a deep sense of pride and heartfelt gratitude. He recalled how a young boy from Rajkot dreamt of playing for India, never imagining that cricket would reward him with so many opportunities, experiences, and love from fans.
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… pic.twitter.com/p8yOd5tFyT
— Cheteshwar Pujara (@cheteshwar1) August 24, 2025
He wrote, “Wearing the Indian jersey, standing for the national anthem, and giving my all each time I walked onto the field are emotions that words cannot capture. Yet, as every journey has an end, with deep gratitude I announce my retirement from international cricket in all formats.”
The veteran cricketer expressed thanks to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the Saurashtra Cricket Association, as well as the franchises, county clubs, coaches, and mentors who played a role in his development. He credited his growth to the guidance of his mentors and the blessings of his spiritual teachers. “Without their support, I would not have been able to reach this far,” he acknowledged.
Pujara’s reputation was built on patience, resilience, and a rock-solid defense. He was the cornerstone of India’s batting in overseas victories, most notably the 2018–19 Test series win in Australia, where his gritty centuries were central to India’s historic triumph. As he steps away from the international stage, Pujara leaves behind the image of a cricketer who valued determination and discipline over flair. His contribution has inspired a generation of young players, and tributes have poured in from teammates and fans who view him as one of the finest Test batsmen India has ever produced.
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