Cheteshwar Pujara retires from all forms of cricket, closing a glorious chapter filled with grit, patience, and unmatched resilience. He built his legacy on determination, not flamboyance, and earned the title of India’s Iron Man at No. 3.
For over ten years, Pujara has been the backbone of India’s batting lineup. He displayed classical technique and unshakable temperament. Pujara played 103 Tests, scored 7,195 runs, and averaged 43.60. He also registered 19 centuries and 35 half-centuries. Moreover, he stood firm when India needed stability the most.
He rose to legendary status during the 2018-19 series in Australia. Pujara scored 521 runs in seven innings, grinding down a world-class pace attack. Consequently, he won the Player of the Series award and powered India to their first-ever Test series victory in Australia. That historic feat cemented his reputation as India’s backbone in tough conditions.
Cheteshwar Pujara Stats in all formats
| Format | Mat | Runs | HS | Avg | SR | 100s | 50s |
| Tests | 103 | 7195 | 206 | 43.6 | 44.36 | 19 | 35 |
| ODIs | 5 | 51 | 27 | 10.2 | 39.23 | 0 | 0 |
| T20s | 71 | 1556 | 100 | 29.35 | 112.18 | 1 | 9 |
Furthermore, Pujara dominated the domestic circuit. He amassed more than 21,300 first-class runs, including 66 centuries and three triple-hundreds. For Saurashtra, he became the pillar of their batting lineup. He guided them to two Ranji Trophy titles and finished as the state’s highest run-getter with over 7,700 runs at an average exceeding 62. Therefore, his domestic record remains as formidable as his international one.
One of his most heroic innings came at the Gabba in 2021. Australian bowlers hit him on the body several times. Yet, he absorbed the blows and battled on. He scored a gritty 56 off 211 balls, giving India the platform to seal a famous Test win in Brisbane. As a result, fans hailed him as a warrior who sacrificed his body for the team.
On August 24, 2025, Pujara announced his retirement with grace. He shared a heartfelt note on social media, thanking his fans, teammates, and the game. He expressed that donning the Indian jersey and belting out the anthem was the pinnacle of his achievements. However, true to his personality, he did not seek a farewell match. Instead, he quietly walked away, letting his legacy speak for itself.
Reactions flowed instantly. Former captain Anil Kumble praised him as a great ambassador of Test cricket. The BCCI lauded his perseverance and selflessness. Meanwhile, fans remembered him as a “modern-day Test warrior.” Even Shashi Tharoor remarked that he deserved a more dignified farewell. Pujara’s influence went well beyond just his batting stats.
Looking ahead, Pujara already has plans for life after cricket. He expressed his wish to create opportunities for the next generation. In addition, he showed interest in roles such as commentary, coaching, and administration. With his calm personality and sharp cricketing mind, he can inspire future cricketers and strengthen the sport further.
In conclusion, Cheteshwar Pujara built his career on grit, perseverance, and sacrifice. He stayed calm under pressure, played marathon innings, and stood as a shield for his team. Therefore, he will always symbolize the purest form of Test cricket. Cheteshwar Pujara retires from all forms of cricket, but his name will forever echo as India’s Iron Man at No. 3.
