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New Delhi: Cheteshwar Pujara, widely regarded as a Test stalwart, has drawn the curtains on his cricketing career after nearly 20 years. The 37-year-old announced his retirement from all forms of the game through an emotional post on his X handle, leaving former players and fans stunned.

In his emotional post, he 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’s has played 103 Tests for India, the last came against Australia in 2023 in the World Test Championship final at The Oval. Over the years, he has amassed 7195 runs at an average of 43.60 and was ranked eighth in the all-time leading run-scorer for India. Overall, in his first-class cricket, he has scored 21301 runs.

Pujara’s retirement evoked an outpouring of admiration from the cricketing fraternity with former teammates and coaches saluting his grit, determination and selflessness over the years as he ruled the Test cricket.

He stood tall when the storm raged, he fought when hope was fading. Congratulations Pujji 🇮🇳@cheteshwar1 pic.twitter.com/0Tj836uoO9

— Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir)

Someone who always put his mind, body and soul for the country! Many congratulations on an outstanding career Puji! See you on the other side! @cheteshwar1 pic.twitter.com/gbpscDGFZd

— Yuvraj Singh (@YUVSTRONG12)

From the time I first saw Pujara and his potential, it was brilliant to see that potential translating into performance. His courage, grit and determination stood out and the body blows that he took in the Gabba test we won against Australia symbolised Pujara the cricketer for… pic.twitter.com/HsM54bVRVa

— VVS Laxman (@VVSLaxman281)

Congratulations on a fantastic career!You have been a great ambassador of this wonderful game @cheteshwar1 We are all proud of all your achievements on the cricket field. You gave it your all for the team! It was a privilege to have worked with you and may you continue to shine…

— Anil Kumble (@anilkumble1074)

Congratulations on a fabulous test career @cheteshwar1 .
Your grit ,determination and hardwork was inspiring and you can be very proud of what you have achieved. Best wishes for a memorable second innings. pic.twitter.com/xtQZPnGo2W

— Virrender Sehwag (@virendersehwag)