Cheteshwar Pujara, the man often described as the backbone of India’s Test batting for more than a decade, has finally revealed the reasons behind his retirement from professional cricket. Known for his monk-like patience at the crease and an unwavering commitment to the red-ball game, Cheteshwar Pujara surprised many by calling time on his career just as the new Indian domestic season got underway.
The Turning Point
Pujara last represented India in a Test match in 2023, but unlike several of his illustrious teammates who stepped away earlier, he remained active in domestic cricket. Many expected him to feature in the Ranji Trophy this season.
However, in a candid conversation with PTI, the veteran batter explained what led to his decision.
“When I was in the UK (on broadcasting duties during Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy), I was actually looking forward to the season. But once I came back home, I was settling in and when I was about to start my preparation for the Ranji Trophy, I wanted to speak to my family, to my friends, some of my colleagues. What are their thoughts on me playing this season.”
That moment of reflection—with input from his inner circle—eventually convinced him that it was the right time to walk away.
A Wave of Retirements in Indian Cricket
Pujara’s retirement is not an isolated event. Over the past nine months, Indian cricket has witnessed the departure of several stalwarts:
- Ravichandran Ashwin bid farewell to all forms of Indian cricket.
- Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli stepped down from Test cricket.
- Now, Pujara has joined them in closing an unforgettable chapter of Indian cricket’s golden era.
This collective exit of established names marks the beginning of a generational shift. For fans, it feels like the end of an era where resilience, class, and leadership defined India’s dominance in Test matches around the world.
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Pujara’s Unique Place in Indian Cricket
Unlike many of his peers who made their names in flashy T20 leagues, Pujara built his legacy in the traditional format. Often referred to as the “new Wall” after Rahul Dravid, he carried the responsibility of wearing down bowlers, blunting hostile spells, and providing the platform for stroke-makers around him.
- Key Numbers: Pujara played 103 Tests for India, scoring over 7,000 runs with 19 centuries.
- Iconic Knocks: His series-defining contributions in Australia, particularly during the 2018–19 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, remain etched in history. His stonewalling against the likes of Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood became the stuff of folklore.
Where others thrived on aggression, Pujara stood out for his grit, his ability to soak up pressure, and his readiness to endure blows on the body for the team’s cause.
Why Now? The Factors Behind His Decision
Several subtle factors likely influenced Pujara’s timing:
- Changing Team Dynamics
With India’s Test side undergoing transition and younger players like Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shubman Gill cementing their spots, Pujara’s pathway back into the national XI seemed slim. - Physical and Mental Toll
Playing as a defensive anchor in an era of aggressive cricket is as demanding mentally as it is physically. Years of battling world-class fast bowlers inevitably take their toll. - The Desire to Transition Gracefully
By retiring now, Pujara avoids lingering in domestic cricket without realistic hopes of an India comeback. His decision reflects foresight and dignity, hallmarks of his career.
Comparing with His Peers
The timing of Pujara’s exit mirrors that of his contemporaries. Ashwin’s decision earlier this year was equally surprising but logical, given India’s focus on grooming younger spinners. Kohli and Rohit, both choosing to limit themselves to shorter formats, also reflected the changing priorities in modern cricket.
The common theme across all these retirements? A recognition that Indian cricket is entering a new era, one where the baton must be passed to the next generation.
Life After Cricket: What Next for Pujara?
Pujara has already dabbled in media roles, serving as a broadcaster during the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy in the UK. His calm demeanor and deep understanding of the game make him a natural fit for commentary and analysis.
Beyond that, he could also contribute to Indian cricket as a mentor or coach. Players of his temperament are rare, and his insights on Test match preparation, patience, and handling pressure could prove invaluable to upcoming cricketers.
One wouldn’t be surprised if the National Cricket Academy (NCA) ropes him in for specialized roles, especially in grooming India’s next generation of red-ball specialists.
The Legacy of Cheteshwar Pujara
- Patience Personified: At a time when cricket celebrated big-hitting, Pujara showed the value of patience and discipline.
- Match-Saver: His ability to bat time, absorb pressure, and tire out bowlers often set the stage for India’s victories abroad.
- A Gentleman of the Game: Always soft-spoken and humble, Pujara embodied the values of sportsmanship and professionalism.
He may not have dominated headlines like Virat Kohli or Rohit Sharma. But in many ways, he was just as crucial to India’s Test success.
Final Word
Cheteshwar Pujara’s retirement may not have come with the fanfare of a farewell Test or a grand send-off, but in keeping with his personality, it was thoughtful, understated, and dignified.
His career is a reminder that cricket is not always about flair or aggression sometimes. It’s about resilience, endurance, and the quiet strength to stand tall when the team needs you the most.
As India transitions into a new Test era. The absence of Pujara’s calm presence at the crease will be felt deeply. Yet, his legacy will continue to inspire the next generation of batters tasked with carrying forward India’s red-ball tradition.
What’s your favorite Pujara knock? Was it his heroic stand in Australia or his patient hundreds at home? Share your memories of India’s modern-day Wall.
