Cheteshwar Pujara, the legendary Indian cricket player who “aimed for the stars,” announces his retirement, leaving behind priceless test memories.

Few cricketers embody resilience, patience, and sheer determination quite like Cheteshwar Pujara, and on Sunday, India bid farewell to one of its most dependable Test warriors. The career that inspired millions of fans and aspiring cricket players came to an end when Pujara, who has been the mainstay of India’s middle order for more than ten years, formally announced his retirement from all forms of cricket. His departure from the game marks the end of an era defined not by flashy sixes or lightning strike rates, but by classical batting, gritty partnerships, and a brand of Test match resilience that has slowly faded in the modern game.

In his heartfelt farewell note, Pujara reflected on his journey, saying he had always “set out to aim for the stars,” a statement that sums up his passion and commitment towards the game he so dearly loved. His impact on Indian cricket goes beyond just his runs; in a time when quick cricket was all the rage, he represented tenacity, bravery, and the skill of traditional Test match batting.

A Career Built on Grit and Determination

Born in Rajkot, Gujarat, in January 1988, Cheteshwar Arvind Pujara was destined for cricket. His father, Arvind Pujara, was himself a first-class cricketer who instilled in him the values of patience and discipline. After impressing in age-group cricket and making headlines with his remarkable double and triple centuries in domestic matches, Pujara became a natural successor to Rahul Dravid in India’s Test setup.

He made his Test debut in 2010 against Australia, and though his initial years were filled with challenges, Pujara gradually cemented his place in the side as India’s most reliable No. 3 batter. Over time, he developed a reputation as the “New Wall” of Indian cricket, often drawing comparisons with Dravid due to his rock-solid defense and ability to bat for long hours.

Across his career, Pujara played 103 Tests, scoring more than 7,000 runs at an average above 43, including 19 centuries and 35 fifties. His figures, however, only paint a part of the picture. His greatest contributions came in pressure situations—when wickets were falling around him or when India was battling hostile bowling in foreign conditions.

The Sydney Marathon and Beyond

If one moment defines Cheteshwar Pujara’s career, it is the 2021 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia, where his incredible grit played a pivotal role in India’s historic series win. Facing short balls, bruising body blows, and relentless pace from Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood, Pujara refused to back down. While playing in Sydney and Brisbane, he sustained injuries to his arms, chest, and helmet, but he stayed strong, fending off the Australian assault and allowing younger players like Rishabh Pant and Shubman Gill to flourish at the other end.

In that series, his innings of 56 off 211 balls at Brisbane and 77 off 205 at Sydney will forever remain etched in cricketing folklore. They were not just knocks; they were acts of defiance that defined India’s spirit. Even Australian greats like Ricky Ponting and Justin Langer praised his ability to “bat time” and put India in positions to win overseas.

Throwback: Five Great Test Knocks

To truly understand Pujara’s impact, one must revisit some of his most iconic innings:

206 vs England, Ahmedabad, 2012
In only his sixth Test, Pujara scored a double century that showcased his stamina and patience. He batted for over 11 hours, taking India to a commanding win and marking himself as a long-term prospect.

153 vs South Africa, Johannesburg, 2013
Against a world-class pace attack featuring Dale Steyn and Morne Morkel, Pujara’s 153 at the Wanderers was a masterclass in batting under pressure. His ability to play long against hostile conditions earned him praise worldwide.

202 vs Australia, Ranchi, 2017
This marathon knock lasted more than 11 hours (525 balls), making it the longest innings ever played by an Indian in Test cricket. It made sure India drew the game and annoyed the Australians.

123 vs Australia, Adelaide, 2018
Perhaps his most memorable overseas hundred, this gritty century laid the foundation for India’s first-ever Test series win in Australia. It came in tough batting conditions and stood out for its sheer discipline.

56 vs Australia, Brisbane, 2021
Though not a century, this knock epitomized his toughness. Struck multiple times on his body, Pujara absorbed 211 balls and gave Pant the platform to script India’s famous Gabba win.

Each of these innings tells the story of a man who valued the team’s cause above personal glory.

Legacy Beyond Numbers

Pujara may not have dominated T20 leagues or lit up ODIs, but his value in Test cricket was immeasurable. At a time when strike rates and six-hitting ability dominate discussions, Pujara reminded the cricketing world of the essence of Test cricket—patience, technique, and the ability to grind down opponents.

His willingness to take blows on his body, bat through pain, and protect his wicket at all costs inspired younger cricketers. For India, he provided the platform upon which many famous victories were built. For fans, he became a symbol of traditional cricketing values in a rapidly changing landscape.