Cheteshwar Pujara announces retirement from all forms of cricket

Former Indian middle-order batsman Cheteshwar Pujara on Sunday (August 24, 2025) announced his retirement from all forms of cricket.

Son and pupil of former Ranji player Arvind, Pujara grew up piling on big scores even as a boy: a triple-century in Under-14 cricket, and a double against England in Under-19.

Pujara has played 103 Tests scoring 7,195 runs with 206 not out being his highest score. He has scored 19 centuries along with 35 half-centuries. In first class cricket, he has played 278 matches scoring 21,301 runs with 352 being his highest. His average in first-class cricket is 51.82. He has scored 66 centuries and 81 half-centuries.

Pujara also has played 71 T20 matches scoring 1,556 runs with 100 being his best.

“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,” said Pujara in a heartfelt note.

(with PTI inputs)