Cheteshwar Pujara: Wall 2.0 Retires
Holding an extreme view and carting the ball out of the park is what interests him most. He is a hard hitter at all times. Fasten your seatbelts and read.
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By Slogger
First publised on 2025-08-27 02:55:37
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Holding an extreme view and carting the ball out of the park is what interests him most. He is a hard hitter at all times. Fasten your seatbelts and read.
View all posts by this Author
On August 24, 2025, Cheteshwar Pujara announced his retirement from "all forms of Indian cricket," bringing the curtains down on a distinguished 15-year international career. The 37-year-old Rajkot native, known as India's modern-day "Wall," made the announcement through his social media handles with characteristic humility.
"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," Pujara wrote. "But as they say, all good things must come to an end."
A Test Cricket Stalwart
Pujara's international career began in October 2010, but it was in Test cricket where he truly excelled. Over 103 Tests, he amassed 7,195 runs at an impressive average of 43.60, including 19 centuries and 35 half-centuries. His five ODI appearances yielded just 51 runs, highlighting his clear preference for the longer format.
Succeeding Rahul Dravid in the crucial No. 3 position, Pujara became the backbone of India's batting order. His technique and temperament provided stability, allowing more aggressive batsmen to flourish around him. He achieved the remarkable feat of scoring centuries against all Test-playing nations he faced except Afghanistan, with five centuries each against Australia and England.
Defining Moments
Pujara's crowning achievement came during India's historic 2018-19 series victory in Australia - their first Test series win on Australian soil. He was Player of the Series after scoring 521 runs across four Tests, exemplifying his ability to perform under pressure in challenging conditions.
He was instrumental in several other memorable series victories, including the 2020-21 triumph in Australia and the 2023 home series win. His patient batting often laid the foundation for India's success in tough overseas conditions.
Beyond International Cricket
While Pujara's last international appearance was in the June 2023 WTC final against Australia, his passion for cricket extended beyond national duties. He represented Saurashtra from 2005 and played for them in the recent 2024-25 Ranji Trophy season. He also had stints with Sussex in County Championship cricket.
His IPL career was limited, playing for Kolkata Knight Riders (2010), Royal Challengers Bengaluru (2011-2013), and Kings XI Punjab (2014), reflecting his commitment to red-ball cricket over T20 formats.
A Classical Approach
Pujara remained an old-fashioned batsman who prioritized Test cricket even as white-ball formats gained prominence. This commitment to traditional cricket values earned him respect from purists worldwide who appreciated his classical batting approach and unwavering technique.
Transition to Commentary
Post-retirement, Pujara has transitioned into cricket commentary, working with networks including ESPNcricinfo and joining the BBC Test Match Special team, ensuring his cricket knowledge continues to benefit the sport.
Lasting Legacy
Pujara's retirement marks the end of an era in Indian cricket. His career embodied resilience, patience, and technical excellence - qualities that became his trademark. He joins recent retirees R Ashwin, Virat Kohli, and Rohit Sharma in stepping away from the game.
For cricket fans, Cheteshwar Pujara will be remembered as the unflappable guardian of India's middle order, proving that sometimes the greatest strength lies not in explosive power, but in quiet, persistent excellence. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations who understand the art of patience and determination in cricket.
