Cheteshwar Pujara Announces Retirement from All Forms of Cricket

Cheteshwar Pujara, one of India’s most dependable Test batters of the past decade, has announced his retirement from all forms of cricket. The 36-year-old confirmed the decision on Sunday through an emotional Instagram post, bringing down the curtain on a celebrated career built on patience and resilience.

Pujara had been out of India’s Test plans since 2023, when he last played against Australia at The Oval. Although rumours suggested a possible recall for the 2025 Australia tour, selectors opted to invest in younger players.

With India’s recent Test reshuffle following the retirements of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and R. Ashwin, Pujara’s hopes of a comeback effectively ended.

In his statement, Pujara thanked the BCCI, Saurashtra Cricket Association, domestic teams, county sides, coaches, mentors, officials, sponsors, teammates, support staff, and fans for their support throughout his career.

He also expressed gratitude to his family and said he now looks forward to the next phase of life, prioritising time with them.

Cheteshwar Puajra’s Emotional Post:

“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.

“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.

“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.

“I wouldn’t have made it this far without the invaluable guidance of my mentors, coaches and spiritual guru – to them I shall always remain indebted.

“A big thank you to all my teammates, support staff, net bowlers, analysts, logistics team, umpires, ground staff, scorers, media personnel and all those who tirelessly work behind the scenes to enable us to compete and play this game we love.

“To my sponsors, partners and management team – I truly appreciate your loyalty and belief in me over the years, and for looking after my off-field activites.

“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.

“And of course none of all this would have been possible or meaningful without the innumerable sacrifices and steadfast support of my family – my parents, my wife Puja, my daughter Aditi; my in-laws and the rest of my extended family – who have made this journey truly worth it. I look forward to the next phase of my life, spending more time with and prioritizing them.

“Thank you for all the love and support!”