Cheteshwar Pujara, one of India’s most dependable Test batters, officially announced his retirement from international cricket on Sunday. Over the course of his career, Pujara became synonymous with resilience, patience, and determination at the crease.
Known for his ability to soak up pressure and tire out the best bowling attacks, he featured in 103 Test matches and amassed 7,195 runs at a healthy average of 43.60. His batting was instrumental in many of India’s famous overseas triumphs, particularly in Australia.
While Indian cricket has witnessed many flamboyant stroke-makers, Pujara built his reputation through sheer grit and classical technique. His ability to hold the innings together made him an irreplaceable part of the Test setup for over a decade. The retirement marks the end of an era for India, as fans and experts alike reflect on the impact he had on the longest format of the game.
Cheteshwar Pujara named four bowlers who pushed him to his limits throughout his career. Interestingly, none of them were from Asia, underscoring the challenge of facing fast and swing bowlers in foreign conditions.
1. Dale Steyn (South Africa)
Widely regarded as one of the most dangerous fast bowlers of his generation, Steyn’s raw pace and ability to generate movement at high speed made him a constant threat. Pujara admitted that Steyn’s fiery spells in South Africa demanded flawless technique and immense patience.
2. Morne Morkel (South Africa)
Standing tall at over six feet, Morkel used his height to extract steep bounce on even the flattest tracks. For a technically sound batter like Pujara, Morkel’s deliveries rising sharply from a good length were particularly testing. Facing him meant battling not just speed, but also uncomfortable bounce.
3. James Anderson (England)
The highest wicket-taker among fast bowlers in Test history, Anderson has troubled generations of batters with his masterful swing. Pujara highlighted how Anderson’s ability to move the ball both ways—even in the subcontinent—demanded constant vigilance. Playing him in English conditions was one of the biggest challenges of Pujara’s career.
4. Pat Cummins (Australia)
Australia’s current captain combines sheer pace, sharp bounce, and unwavering accuracy. Pujara faced some of Cummins’ toughest spells during India’s tours to Australia. Cummins’ relentless pressure tested not just Pujara’s technique but also his concentration during marathon innings.
Praise From the Cricketing Fraternity
Tributes have poured in following Pujara’s retirement, with many former players hailing his contributions to Indian cricket. Among the most notable voices was Ravi Shastri, India’s former head coach, who lauded him as a “real warrior.” Shastri emphasized how Pujara’s batting helped India climb to the No. 1 spot in Test rankings and secure back-to-back series victories in Australia—milestones that defined a golden phase for the team.
Pujara’s legacy goes beyond statistics; it lies in his mental toughness and selfless approach. He often endured body blows, long spells at the crease, and relentless bowling attacks, all in the service of his team. As Indian cricket moves into a new era, Pujara will be remembered as the backbone of the Test side, a player who valued team success over personal milestones and epitomized the true spirit of Test cricket.
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