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On August 24, 2025, 37-year-old Cheteshwar Pujara announced his retirement from all forms of Indian cricket. Pujara bid goodbye to a cricket career that started in December 2005 in Rajkot. Pujara turned out to be India’s Wall 2.0 after Rahul Dravid retired from Test cricket. As Pujara shared the news, cricketers hailed him on social media as a man who never gave up.
“He stood tall when the storm raged, he fought when hope was fading. Congratulations Pujji,” current Team India head coach Gautam Gambhir said.
Former India captain and legendary leg-spinner Anil Kumble replied to Pujara’s post on X.
“Congratulations on a fantastic career! You have been a great ambassador of this wonderful game @cheteshwar1,” Kumble wrote.
“We are all proud of all your achievements on the cricket field. You gave it your all for the team! It was a privilege to have worked with you and may you continue to shine in your second innings! Best wishes to you, Puja , Aditi and your Dad. Well Done!!”
India’s legendary all-rounder Yuvraj Singh praised Pujara for putting his body on the line.
“Someone who always put his mind, body and soul for the country! Many congratulations on an outstanding career Puji! See you on the other side!” he wrote.
Virender Sehwag, Wasim Jaffer and Suresh Raina paid tributes to Pujara as well.
Pujara’s record
Pujara holds the record for most balls faced by an India batter in a Test innings. In 2017, he faced 525 balls to score 202 runs, his highest Test score.
What’s next for Pujara?
Pujara’s last Test appearance was in the World Test Championship (WTC) 2023 final against Australia. He has been playing domestic cricket, County cricket since then and also commentating in India's international fixtures. While Pujara has retired from all forms of Indian cricket, he play franchise cricket abroad.
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