Cheteshwar Pujara Retires: india Loses Its Test Match Rock at 37
Rajkot, India – Cheteshwar Pujara, the stoic and dependable backbone of the indian Test batting lineup for over a decade, has announced his retirement from all forms of cricket at the age of 37.The news, shared via social media on Sunday, marks the end of an exemplary career spanning 103 test matches and solidifies Pujara’s legacy as one of India’s greatest ever Test batsmen.
[Image of Cheteshwar Pujara announcing retirement – BCCI Photograph]
“As a little boy from the small town of Rajkot… I dreamt to be a part of the Indian cricket team,” Pujara wrote in a heartfelt statement.”Little did I know then that this game would give me so much… a chance to represent my state and this great nation.”
Pujara’s retirement follows those of fellow Indian Test stalwarts Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma earlier this year, and R Ashwin’s mid-tour retirement in December, signaling a changing of the guard in Indian cricket.
A Career Built on Resilience and Runs
throughout his career, Pujara amassed 7,195 runs in Test cricket at an impressive average of 43.60, placing him eighth among India’s all-time leading run-scorers. He also boasts a formidable first-class record, accumulating 21,301 runs.
[Image of Pujara batting – Rediff.com]
Known for his unwavering concentration, extraordinary technique, and ability to wear down bowlers, Pujara earned the moniker “The Wall” after Rahul Dravid, becoming a crucial figure in India’s Test successes, especially in challenging overseas conditions. his pivotal role in India’s historic back-to-back Test series victories in Australia in 2018 and 2021 will forever be etched in the memories of Indian cricket fans.
“His dedication towards the game from the start and end of his career remained the same,” said Jaydev Shah, President of the Saurashtra Cricket Association, where Pujara began his first-class journey. “Also, a big salute to his father (Arvind Pujara) for shaping his cricketing career.”
A Late Surge and a Respectful Exit
despite being dropped from the Indian team in 2023,Pujara demonstrated his enduring passion for the game by piling on runs in domestic cricket,fueled by a desire to reclaim his place. Current Saurashtra head coach Niraj odedra remarked, “He trained like an 18-year-old with us wanting to go back to where he belonged.”
[Image of Pujara celebrating a milestone – Rediff.com]
While many hoped to see him continue, Pujara ultimately decided to retire, recognizing his chances of returning to the national team were diminishing.”I did not see the retirement decision coming but I am guessing he made the call knowing that he won’t be playing for India again,” odedra added. “Having said that his contribution to Indian cricket is immense.”
pujara’s decision brings an end to a remarkable career defined by dedication, humility, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. He leaves behind a legacy as a true Test match player and a role model for aspiring cricketers in India and beyond.
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