Legendary batter Cheteshwar Pujara has announced his retirement from Test cricket, bringing an end to an era of steadfast resilience and unwavering dedication.
The news has touched many, but perhaps none more profoundly than Sachin Tendulkar, who poured his heart out in a deeply emotional social media post.
On Sunday, Pujara, the backbone of India’s Test squad for over a decade, officially bid farewell to the cricketing arena. His career was marked by countless pivotal contributions whether anchoring the innings or grinding down the opposition’s bowlers on foreign soil.
He was a key architect of India’s historic overseas triumphs, and his century in Tendulkar’s final Test match remains etched in cricketing memory.
In the wake of Pujara’s departure, the cricketing legend Tendulkar shared a heartfelt tribute on Twitter, capturing the admiration and respect he holds for his former teammate.
Tendulkar’s Tribute to Pujara
Pujara, seeing you bat always brought a sense of calm and reassurance. You stepped onto the field each time with quiet confidence, courage, and an evident love for Test cricket. Your solid technique, patience, and composure under pressure became the pillars of our team.
He further expressed his appreciation for Pujara’s crucial role in India’s 2018-19 series victory in Australia an achievement that perhaps wouldn’t have been possible without the steadfast presence of the Saurashtra batter.
“In 103 Tests, you scored over 7,000 runs an incredible feat. You have also amassed over 2130 runs in First-Class cricket. Your journey has been one of perseverance, discipline, and unwavering commitment,”* Tendulkar added.
A Debut in 2010 and a Quiet Departure
Pujara made his debut in Test cricket in 2010 against Australia in Bangalore, stepping into the arena alongside Tendulkar himself. From that moment, he became a pivotal figure in India’s Test lineup, offering stability and resilience at number 3 a role he relished and mastered.
As the domestic cricket season approaches, many anticipated Pujara would continue to don the Saurashtra jersey, but he has made a conscious decision this is the right time to step away. The reasons are personal, but the impact of his presence on Indian cricket will resonate for years to come.
Pujara’s retirement marks the end of a chapter that was defined by grit, patience, and unwavering dedication traits that endeared him to fans and teammates alike. And for Tendulkar, who shared the field with him and watched his journey from close quarters, it’s a moment of bittersweet reflection.
A Quiet Hero Bows Out
As fans and cricket lovers around the world bid farewell to a true Test specialist, one thing remains clear: Cheteshwar Pujara’s career was a testament to perseverance and silent strength a legacy that will inspire generations to come.
