"Thank you for all the love and support!"
Cheteshwar Pujara has announced his retirement from all forms of international cricket.
The 37-year-old, who last played for India in the 2023 World Test Championship final against Australia, announced the decision on social media.
Pujara wrote: “Wearing the Indian jersey, singing the anthem, and trying my best each time I stepped on the field – it’s impossible to put into words what it truly meant.
“But as they say, all good things must come to an end, and with immense gratitude I have decided to retire from all forms of Indian cricket.
“Thank you for all the love and support!”
Pujara made his Test debut in 2010 against Australia and went on to play 103 Tests and five ODIs.
His greatest impact came in the longest format, where he scored 7,195 runs at an average of 43.60, including 19 centuries and 35 half-centuries. He was particularly successful against Australia and England, striking five centuries each.
Known for occupying the crucial No. 3 position after Rahul Dravid’s retirement, Pujara became India’s anchor in the red-ball game.
His most celebrated performance came during the 2018-19 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, where he scored 521 runs and was named Player of the Series as India clinched their first Test series victory in Australia.
He also played decisive roles in the 2020-21 series win in Australia and India’s home dominance in 2023.
Reflecting on his journey, Pujara wrote: “As a little boy from the small town of Rajkot, along with my parents, I set out to aim for the stars, and dreamt to be a part of the Indian cricket team.
“Little did I know then that this game would give me so much – invaluable opportunities, experiences, purpose, love, and above all, a chance to represent my state and this great nation.
“I would like to thank the BCCI and Saurashtra Cricket Association for the opportunity and support through my cricket career.
“Am equally grateful to all the teams, franchises and counties I have been able to represent over the years.
“The game has taken me to places across the globe – and the passionate support and energy of the fans has always been a constant.
“I have been humbled by the wishes and motivation wherever I have played and will always remain grateful.”
Cheteshwar Pujara also remained active in county cricket with Sussex and continued playing domestic cricket for Saurashtra, featuring in the 2024-25 Ranji Trophy season.
He played for multiple IPL franchises including Kolkata Knight Riders, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Kings XI Punjab and was part of the Chennai Super Kings squad in 2021.
However, his international white-ball career was brief, with just 51 runs in five ODIs.
In recent years, Pujara also worked as a cricket pundit, sharing insights drawn from his career.
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