In a heartfelt tribute to the seasoned batter, Gautam Gambhir, India’s former explosive opener and current head coach, took to social media to extend his congratulations to Cheteshwar Pujara upon his retirement from all formats of international cricket.
The news of Pujara’s decision to bid farewell to international cricket has sent ripples through the cricketing fraternity.
After over two years of being sidelined from the Indian team, Pujara made the emotional announcement via social media, leaving fans and teammates alike reminiscing about his unwavering resilience and dedication.
Gambhir, who shares a long-standing cricketing bond with Pujara having shared the dressing room and the field reacted with admiration. On his X handle, Gambhir wrote, “He stood tall even amidst the storm. He fought when all hope seemed lost.
Wishing you all the best, Pujji!” Despite their years together on the pitch, it’s noteworthy that Gambhir, now coaching, never got the chance to captain or field Pujara in a match during his tenure.
A Changing Guard in Indian Cricket Under Gambhir’s Leadership
Since Gambhir took over as head coach, Indian cricket has seen a significant transition. Notably, four senior stalwarts have announced their retirements from Test cricket Ravichandran Ashwin, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and now Cheteshwar Pujara.
Kohli and Sharma retired from Test matches just before the England series, while Ashwin called it quits during the Australia tour, marking the end of an era.
Pujara’s Test Career – A Testament to Resilience
Debuting in 2010, Cheteshwar Pujara’s journey with the Indian team has been a story of perseverance. Over the course of 103 Test matches, Pujara amassed an impressive 7,195 runs at an average of 43.60, showcasing his grit and technical prowess.
His record includes 19 centuries and 35 half-centuries, with his highest score reaching an unbeaten 206. Though his opportunities in ODIs were limited playing only five matches his impact in the Test arena remains indelible.
Pujara’s career epitomized patience and resilience, qualities that endeared him to cricket fans and teammates alike. As he steps away, the cricketing world reflects on his steadfast presence in India’s batting order an embodiment of quiet determination and unwavering loyalty to the game.
In the end, Pujara’s retirement marks the closing of a significant chapter in Indian cricket one that will be remembered for his unwavering commitment and the silent strength he brought to the team’s batting lineup.
