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Cheteshwar Pujara Retires: A Tribute from Cricket Legends

Gyanhigyan english | August 25, 2025 1:39 AM CST

Farewell to a Cricketing Icon

New Delhi: Anil Kumble, the former captain and head coach of India, honored Cheteshwar Pujara following his retirement announcement, praising him as 'a remarkable ambassador of cricket' who dedicated himself fully to his team.

Kumble expressed his admiration on social media, stating, "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 in your second innings! Best wishes to you, Puja, Aditi and your Dad. Well Done!!"

On Sunday, Pujara took to his social media to announce his retirement from all formats of Indian cricket, concluding a remarkable career that spanned 103 Test matches. The 37-year-old last represented India in the 2023 World Test Championship final against Australia.

Suryakumar Yadav, the T20I captain, shared his wishes on Instagram, saying, "Happy Retirement to you Pujju bhai." Former spinner Ravichandran Ashwin also congratulated him, stating, "Well done Puji. Happy retirement."

Virender Sehwag, a former opener, commented on X, "Congratulations on a fabulous test career @cheteshwar1. Your grit, determination and hard work were inspiring, and you can be very proud of what you have achieved. Best wishes for a memorable second innings."

Pujara retires as India's eighth-highest run-scorer in Tests, having accumulated 7,195 runs at an average of 43.60, which includes 19 centuries and 35 fifties. Yuvraj Singh, another former cricketer, remarked on Instagram, "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!"

His illustrious Test career was characterized by his ability to bat for long periods, employing his trusted techniques to wear down bowlers and score runs for his team.

"As you embark on this new chapter, we celebrate not just your retirement but the incredible journey you've had. Your dedication, wisdom, and professionalism have made a lasting impact on many," said Pragyan Ojha, a former left-arm spinner, in his Instagram tribute.

Wriddhiman Saha, a former wicketkeeper-batter, expressed, "Congratulations on a phenomenal career, Puji. From up close, I watched your patience and fight lift the team in the toughest moments. Proud to share the field & dressing room with you. Best wishes for the next innings, really enjoyed playing alongside you, and wishing you all the success in whatever comes next!"

Wasim Jaffer, another former cricketer, tweeted, "First of his name, last of his kind. Take a bow on a stellar career @cheteshwar1. You should be mighty proud of what you achieved donning the India cap. Congratulations and all the best for what's to come."

Rahul Sharma, a former spinner, remarked, "Happy retirement Puji, you're the true legend of the game." Mandeep Singh, another Indian batter, expressed gratitude, saying, "Thank you, Legend." Dodda Ganesh, a former fast bowler, added, "A great test career for India. Well done @cheteshwar1."