Why Did Cheteshwar Pujara Retire?Cheteshwar Pujara, the rock of Indian cricket for more than a decade, has announced his retirmenet from all forms of the game. The 37-year-old confirmed his decision on August 24, citing a desire to make way for younger players from his home state of Saurashtra.
Why Did Cheteshwar Pujara Retire? The Player Reveals
Pujara, who amassed 7,195 runs in 103 Tests, said in an exclusive interview with RevSportz that the timing felt right after discussions with family, friends and senior cricketers.
“I felt it is the right time to step out and give chances to the really talented young players in Saurashtra, for them to be part of the playing XI and get the exposure required to take the team forward,” he said.
The right-hander described his career as the fulfilment of a childhood ambition that began with selection for India’s Under-19s, before graduating to the senior team in 2010.
“To share a dressing room with the legends I had grown up watching was an enormous moment for me,” he reflected.
Pujara last turned out for India in 2023, closing a career defined by discipline, sound technique and an ability to hold the innings together in difficult conditions. Reflecting on his journey, he admitted there were highs and lows but said he was grateful for the length of time he could serve the national side.
“As a sportsperson you always have ups and downs, but I think I have been really fortunate to represent my country for so long,” he said.
Cheteshwar Pujara departs with the quiet dignity that characterised his batting, durable, understated, and immensely valuable. For India and Saurashtra alike, he leaves both a record and a reminder of how Test cricket can still be played.
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