Cheteshwar Pujara - one of India's most dependable Test batters, called time on his international career on Sunday, August 24. The 37-year-old walked away after representing India in 103 Tests where he scored 7,195 runs at an average of 43.60 - with 19 centuries and 35 fifties.
His last match was the 2023 World Test Championship final. Since then, he had been active in domestic cricket - including a solid Ranji Trophy season for Saurashtra.
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While the decision came as a surprise to many, Pujara has now explained what prompted him to retire.
Cheteshwar Pujara on why he retired from cricket
Speaking to Aaj Tak, Pujara revealed that the idea of retirement was relatively new. He said he had only been thinking about it for about a week before announcing his decision.
"I didn't think much about it earlier. From about a week I thought this is the right time. It is a proud moment for me and my family. Representing India was always my childhood dream, and I'm grateful that I could live it for so many years," Pujara said.
The veteran added that he takes immense pride in his journey - especially after overcoming two serious injuries early in his career, in 2009 and 2011.
Reports had suggested that Pujara was preparing for another Ranji season with Saurashtra. However, he clarified that he chose to step aside to give younger cricketers more opportunities.
"This was my personal call and I felt it's the right time, especially when young players should get chances in domestic cricket. Earlier I thought I might play this Ranji season, but then I decided it was best to move on," he explained.
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Pujara highlighted that he has no regrets, only gratitude for a career that saw him finish as India's eighth-highest run-scorer in Test cricket. His retirement marks the end of an era - closing the chapter on one of India's most resilient Test specialists while opening doors for the next generation of batters.