Cheteshwar Pujara announced his retirement from all forms of Indian cricket. In a world of fast-paced, power-hitting cricket, Pujara stood out as a rare gem. He was a throwback to an older era, a batsman who treated Test cricket as a sacred art. For him, it was not about dominating bowlers but surviving their toughest challenges with patience and unshakable resolve. His departure marks the end of a remarkable chapter in India’s red-ball cricket history. Pujara was not just a player; he was a living philosophy, a rock against which the fiercest bowling attacks crumbled.
The Quiet Warrior at No. 3
For over a decade, Pujara was India’s silent hero. He stepped into the No. 3 spot once held by the legendary Rahul Dravid and made it his own. Across 103 Test matches, he scored 7,195 runs at an impressive average of 43.60. His record includes 19 centuries and 35 fifties, numbers that reflect his consistency. But runs alone don’t capture his essence. His true worth lay in the time he spent at the crease, the deliveries he faced, and the spirit he drained from opposing teams. Pujara faced over 16,000 balls in Test cricket, a staggering testament to his rock-solid technique and almost meditative focus. He was a wall, standing firm when others faltered, breaking bowlers’ hearts with his endless patience.
The Architect of India’s Historic Triumphs in Australia
Pujara’s legacy shines brightest in India’s unforgettable Test series wins in Australia. He was the backbone of these victories, a central figure who shaped their success.
In the 2018-19 tour, India achieved their first-ever series win Down Under. Pujara was unstoppable, scoring 521 runs across the series. He faced a marathon 1,258 deliveries and hit three centuries, earning the Player of the Series award. His approach was simple but devastating: absorb pressure, blunt the attack, and bat the opposition into submission. Against a world-class pace trio of Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, and Josh Hazlewood, he stood tall. His 123 in Adelaide was a masterclass, an innings of pure skill and grit when India was struggling. It set the tone for the entire series, proving Pujara was the key to unlocking Australia’s fortress.
The 2020-21 series showed Pujara’s courage in even tougher conditions. India’s team was ravaged by injuries, yet Pujara became their shield. His 56 on the final day at the Gabba may seem modest on paper, but it was priceless. He endured 11 painful body blows from Australia’s fast bowlers but refused to back down. His resilience wore down the attack, paving the way for India’s historic victory—one of the greatest in cricket history. As VVS Laxman said, those body blows symbolized Pujara the cricketer: selfless, tough, and willing to endure pain for the team’s glory.
Unforgettable Innings That Defined His Career
Pujara’s career is filled with innings that showcased his immense substance and character. Here are some of his finest moments:
- 206 vs England, Ahmedabad (2012): His maiden double-century was a marathon effort, lasting over eight hours. It announced him as India’s new anchor, a batsman who could hold the innings together with unmatched discipline.
- 202 vs Australia, Ranchi (2017): This was an epic display of endurance. Pujara faced 525 balls—the most by an Indian in a single Test innings—to grind out a match-saving draw. His focus and stamina were extraordinary.
- 145 vs Sri Lanka, Colombo (2015): Recalled to the team and asked to open on a dangerous pitch, Pujara carried his bat through the innings. His performance won the match and the series, earning him the Player of the Match award.
- 153 vs South Africa, Johannesburg (2013): Facing a fearsome pace attack of Dale Steyn, Morne Morkel, and Vernon Philander, Pujara delivered a second-innings masterclass. His 153 in tough conditions proved he could thrive against the best.
A Legacy of Grit, Dignity, and Inspiration
As Pujara steps away, tributes from his peers highlight his impact. Head coach Gautam Gambhir captured his essence perfectly: “He stood tall when the storm raged, he fought when hope was fading.” Virender Sehwag praised his “grit, determination, and hardwork,” noting how he inspired others. Anil Kumble called him a “great ambassador of this wonderful game,” a player who embodied the spirit of Test cricket.
Pujara’s retirement closes an era in Indian cricket. He was a guardian of Test cricket’s traditional values, playing with grace, dignity, and unwavering commitment. In a world obsessed with flashy aggression and quick runs, he reminded us of the beauty of patience and perseverance. He may not have been the most flamboyant batsman, but he was often the most vital. Cheteshwar Pujara was India’s modern wall, the selfless anchor of a golden generation. His legacy will live on in the hearts of fans and the annals of cricket history.
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