Cheteshwar Pujara announced his retirement from all forms of cricket on Sunday, August 25. His last appearance for India came in the World Test Championship (WTC) final against Australia in 2023. The 37-year-old called time on his career after featuring for the national team in 103 Tests and 5 ODIs.
Pujara made his debut for India in a Test match against Australia that was held back in 2010 and finished his career with 7195 runs under his belt in the format. He maintained a brilliant average of 43.60 and had the highest individual score of 206* in red-ball cricket.
After announcing his retirement from all the formats, Pujara recalled how he endured 'unbearable pain during the Border-Gavaskar series against Australia 2020/21. The former batter revealed that he weeas repeatedly hit on the same spot by opposing bowlers during the Test series which significantly increased the pain.
“In moments like these it is important to look at the bigger picture. You are batting for your team, there are billions looking up to you and wanting and praying for the team to do well with the series on the line. When you get hit on the body, you do get shattered sometimes, but then you have to keep your calm. You have to trust yourself, the game and the ability," Pujara told The Indian Express.
“Getting hit once or twice is fine, but when it hits repeatedly on the same spot, the pain becomes unbearable. That’s where the mental toughness comes in. That’s when your dedication and love for the country comes in. I believe in God and he gives me strength. In tough times you need that spiritual power, which is something beyond human understanding. I get strength that I cannot describe, but I get strength," he added.
Pujara was a key figure in India's Test team for many years
There is a reason why Pujara was a mainstay in India's Test set-up for over a decade. He was known for showcasing incredible grit and had the capability of batting for long hours on the crease as well. He made it quite hard for the bowlers to get his wicket and provided stability to the Men in Blue's innings on many occasions.