Cheteshwar Pujara Retirement Interview: Reflections on His Test Journey
Cheteshwar Pujara Retires from All Forms of Cricket
Cheteshwar Pujara is one of India’s most reliable and consistent Test batsmen. Known for his exceptional technique, patience, and ability to play long innings, Pujara has been a cornerstone of India’s batting lineup in Test cricket for over a decade. His ability to adapt to challenging conditions and grind out centuries has made him one of the best Test batsmen of his generation.
Pujara’s solid technique, mental resilience, and knack for absorbing pressure make him a key figure in India’s success, especially in foreign conditions. His role as the anchor in India’s batting order has allowed players like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Ajinkya Rahane to play more freely, knowing Pujara will hold one end up.
Cheteshwar Pujara’s Early Life and Cricketing Journey
Born on January 25, 1988, in Rajkot, Gujarat, Cheteshwar Pujara’s early cricketing days were marked by a relentless focus on improving his technique and playing with discipline. Introduced to cricket at a young age, Pujara honed his batting skills in the Gujarat domestic circuit. His breakthrough came when he was included in India’s U-19 team, and soon after, his domestic performances led to his selection for the Indian senior team.
Pujara made his Test debut in 2010 against Australia, where he quickly established himself with a solid batting technique. His ability to counter-attack even the best bowlers and his temperament for long innings earned him a place in India’s top-order.
Key Milestones:
Domestic Debut: 2005 for Gujarat
Test Debut: 2010 against Australia
ODI Debut: 2013 against Zimbabwe
T20I Debut: 2011 against South Africa
Cheteshwar Pujara’s Batting Strengths and Technique
Cheteshwar Pujara is widely regarded for his sound defensive technique, solid footwork, and ability to occupy the crease for long periods. His batting style is characterized by patient, long innings, and the ability to grind down bowlers, often playing crucial knock after knock in Test matches. Pujara’s mental fortitude to stay at the crease for hours, particularly in challenging situations, has made him one of the finest Test players of his era.
Unlike the aggressive modern-day players, Pujara plays with composure, using minimal risk and maximum precision. His ability to build innings and play long partnerships with fellow batsmen has been a hallmark of his game. Pujara’s technique is particularly well-suited to Test cricket, where his concentration and focus can break down bowlers’ resolve.
Batting Highlights:
Test Batting Average: 45.88
ODI Batting Average: 33.00
T20I Batting Average: 14.00
Best Test Performance: 193 runs against Australia (2017)
Best ODI Performance: 86 runs against Sri Lanka (2017)
Best T20I Performance: 51 runs against South Africa (2011)
Cheteshwar Pujara’s Records and Achievements
Pujara has broken multiple records in his Test career, with 18 centuries to his name in the longest format of the game. His ability to stay consistent and accumulate runs in challenging conditions—especially overseas—has earned him accolades from former cricketers and fans alike. His 2018 series-winning performance against Australia was a standout in his career, as he anchored the innings during India’s historic win Down Under.
Key Records:
Most runs by an Indian in a Test series in Australia
Second-fastest Indian to score 5,000 Test runs
First Indian to score 1,000 runs in a calendar year in Australia
Most runs in a single Test match at the MCG for India (2018)
Record for longest Test innings by an Indian at the SCG (2019)
Cheteshwar Pujara’s Contribution to IPL and Franchise Cricket
While Cheteshwar Pujara is best known for his performances in Test cricket, he has also played in the Indian Premier League (IPL). His IPL debut came in 2010, and he has represented various franchises, including Kolkata Knight Riders and Rajasthan Royals. Though not a regular in the IPL, Pujara has shown his ability to play quick, impactful innings when given the opportunity.
His IPL career has been more about adapting his game to the T20 format, but his solid approach to batting has allowed him to contribute in difficult situations, especially in the middle overs. His inclusion in the IPL gives him valuable experience and insight into the shortest format of the game.
IPL Batting Average: 26.70
Best IPL Performance: 100 runs against Delhi Daredevils (2012)
Impact: Known for his ability to anchor innings and adjust his game in pressure situations
Cheteshwar Pujara’s Role in Indian Cricket
Cheteshwar Pujara’s role in Indian cricket is immense, particularly in Test cricket. His ability to stabilize the batting order and build partnerships has made him an integral part of India’s success in the longest format. Pujara has often played the role of a silent architect, allowing others to play their natural game while he holds one end up.
In ODIs, his role is often that of a top-order anchor who can play the long innings, and though he doesn’t play as frequently in this format, his inclusion in India’s line-up adds depth and consistency. Pujara’s contribution to India’s Test cricket successes, especially in Australia and England, has cemented his place as a key player for India.
Cheteshwar Pujara’s Fitness and Professionalism
Cheteshwar Pujara’s fitness is a key aspect of his success as a long-format batsman. His ability to bat for hours on end, particularly in hot and challenging conditions, requires immense physical stamina and mental toughness. Pujara’s fitness regimen allows him to perform in all conditions, which has been vital in his success in places like Australia, South Africa, and England.
Known for his professional attitude, Pujara’s ability to maintain his focus for long periods at the crease and his commitment to improving his batting technique have made him a role model for young cricketers.
Cheteshwar Pujara’s Legacy and Future
The future for Cheteshwar Pujara is one of continued success and influence on Indian cricket. As one of the best Test batsmen of his generation, Pujara’s legacy is defined by his ability to perform under pressure, provide stability, and play memorable innings in challenging conditions. While his ODI and T20I career has been limited, his impact in Test cricket remains unmatched.
Pujara’s future will see him continue as a key figure in India’s batting lineup, especially as India looks to compete in future ICC tournaments, including the 2023 ICC Cricket World Cup and the 2024 ICC T20 World Cup.
Cheteshwar Pujara’s Career, Achievements, and Impact
Here’s a quick overview of Cheteshwar Pujara’s career:
Category Details
Debut Test: 2010; ODI: 2013; T20I: 2011; IPL: 2010
Key Achievements Most runs by an Indian in a Test series in Australia; Fastest Indian to score 5,000 Test runs
Batting Stats Batting Average (Test): 45.88; Batting Average (ODI): 33.00
Impact in IPL Key top-order batsman for various IPL franchises; Known for his ability to anchor innings
Fitness Known for his stamina and resilience, able to bat for long periods in difficult conditions
Cheteshwar Pujara’s International Matches
Here’s a breakdown of some of Cheteshwar Pujara’s most significant international performances:
Match Type Opponent Date Venue Cheteshwar Pujara’s Performance
Test Australia 2018 Melbourne 192 runs, anchoring India’s batting in historic win
Test England 2021 Lord’s 45* and 50 runs, match-defining innings in tough conditions
Test South Africa 2018 Johannesburg 123 runs, helping India take control of the series
ODI West Indies 2017 Port of Spain 86 runs, solidifying his place as an anchor in the middle order
Test Australia 2021 Sydney 77 runs, contributing to India’s historic win at the SCG
Cheteshwar Pujara’s Batting Prowess: Format-by-Format Breakdown
Format Matches Innings Runs Average Highest Score
Test 95 172 6,415 45.88 193
ODI 5 5 153 33.00 86
T20I 2 2 28 14.00 23
Cheteshwar Pujara’s Impact Beyond the Field
Off the field, Cheteshwar Pujara is known for his dedication, discipline, and professionalism. He is one of the most respected figures in Indian cricket, known for his calm demeanor, his commitment to the game, and his contribution to India’s rise in Test cricket. Pujara’s legacy will be remembered for his resilience, his ability to deliver under pressure, and his role in some of India’s most iconic Test victories.
Cheteshwar Pujara is one of India’s most reliable and consistent Test batsmen. Known for his exceptional technique, patience, and ability to play long innings, Pujara has been a cornerstone of India’s batting lineup in Test cricket for over a decade. His ability to adapt to challenging conditions and grind out centuries has made him one of the best Test batsmen of his generation.
Pujara’s solid technique, mental resilience, and knack for absorbing pressure make him a key figure in India’s success, especially in foreign conditions. His role as the anchor in India’s batting order has allowed players like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Ajinkya Rahane to play more freely, knowing Pujara will hold one end up.
Cheteshwar Pujara’s Early Life and Cricketing Journey
Born on January 25, 1988, in Rajkot, Gujarat, Cheteshwar Pujara’s early cricketing days were marked by a relentless focus on improving his technique and playing with discipline. Introduced to cricket at a young age, Pujara honed his batting skills in the Gujarat domestic circuit. His breakthrough came when he was included in India’s U-19 team, and soon after, his domestic performances led to his selection for the Indian senior team.
Pujara made his Test debut in 2010 against Australia, where he quickly established himself with a solid batting technique. His ability to counter-attack even the best bowlers and his temperament for long innings earned him a place in India’s top-order.
Key Milestones:
Domestic Debut: 2005 for Gujarat
Test Debut: 2010 against Australia
ODI Debut: 2013 against Zimbabwe
T20I Debut: 2011 against South Africa
Cheteshwar Pujara’s Batting Strengths and Technique
Cheteshwar Pujara is widely regarded for his sound defensive technique, solid footwork, and ability to occupy the crease for long periods. His batting style is characterized by patient, long innings, and the ability to grind down bowlers, often playing crucial knock after knock in Test matches. Pujara’s mental fortitude to stay at the crease for hours, particularly in challenging situations, has made him one of the finest Test players of his era.
Unlike the aggressive modern-day players, Pujara plays with composure, using minimal risk and maximum precision. His ability to build innings and play long partnerships with fellow batsmen has been a hallmark of his game. Pujara’s technique is particularly well-suited to Test cricket, where his concentration and focus can break down bowlers’ resolve.
Batting Highlights:
Test Batting Average: 45.88
ODI Batting Average: 33.00
T20I Batting Average: 14.00
Best Test Performance: 193 runs against Australia (2017)
Best ODI Performance: 86 runs against Sri Lanka (2017)
Best T20I Performance: 51 runs against South Africa (2011)
Cheteshwar Pujara’s Records and Achievements
Pujara has broken multiple records in his Test career, with 18 centuries to his name in the longest format of the game. His ability to stay consistent and accumulate runs in challenging conditions—especially overseas—has earned him accolades from former cricketers and fans alike. His 2018 series-winning performance against Australia was a standout in his career, as he anchored the innings during India’s historic win Down Under.
Key Records:
Most runs by an Indian in a Test series in Australia
Second-fastest Indian to score 5,000 Test runs
First Indian to score 1,000 runs in a calendar year in Australia
Most runs in a single Test match at the MCG for India (2018)
Record for longest Test innings by an Indian at the SCG (2019)
Cheteshwar Pujara’s Contribution to IPL and Franchise Cricket
While Cheteshwar Pujara is best known for his performances in Test cricket, he has also played in the Indian Premier League (IPL). His IPL debut came in 2010, and he has represented various franchises, including Kolkata Knight Riders and Rajasthan Royals. Though not a regular in the IPL, Pujara has shown his ability to play quick, impactful innings when given the opportunity.
His IPL career has been more about adapting his game to the T20 format, but his solid approach to batting has allowed him to contribute in difficult situations, especially in the middle overs. His inclusion in the IPL gives him valuable experience and insight into the shortest format of the game.
IPL Batting Average: 26.70
Best IPL Performance: 100 runs against Delhi Daredevils (2012)
Impact: Known for his ability to anchor innings and adjust his game in pressure situations
Cheteshwar Pujara’s Role in Indian Cricket
Cheteshwar Pujara’s role in Indian cricket is immense, particularly in Test cricket. His ability to stabilize the batting order and build partnerships has made him an integral part of India’s success in the longest format. Pujara has often played the role of a silent architect, allowing others to play their natural game while he holds one end up.
In ODIs, his role is often that of a top-order anchor who can play the long innings, and though he doesn’t play as frequently in this format, his inclusion in India’s line-up adds depth and consistency. Pujara’s contribution to India’s Test cricket successes, especially in Australia and England, has cemented his place as a key player for India.
Cheteshwar Pujara’s Fitness and Professionalism
Cheteshwar Pujara’s fitness is a key aspect of his success as a long-format batsman. His ability to bat for hours on end, particularly in hot and challenging conditions, requires immense physical stamina and mental toughness. Pujara’s fitness regimen allows him to perform in all conditions, which has been vital in his success in places like Australia, South Africa, and England.
Known for his professional attitude, Pujara’s ability to maintain his focus for long periods at the crease and his commitment to improving his batting technique have made him a role model for young cricketers.
Cheteshwar Pujara’s Legacy and Future
The future for Cheteshwar Pujara is one of continued success and influence on Indian cricket. As one of the best Test batsmen of his generation, Pujara’s legacy is defined by his ability to perform under pressure, provide stability, and play memorable innings in challenging conditions. While his ODI and T20I career has been limited, his impact in Test cricket remains unmatched.
Pujara’s future will see him continue as a key figure in India’s batting lineup, especially as India looks to compete in future ICC tournaments, including the 2023 ICC Cricket World Cup and the 2024 ICC T20 World Cup.
Cheteshwar Pujara’s Career, Achievements, and Impact
Here’s a quick overview of Cheteshwar Pujara’s career:
Category Details
Debut Test: 2010; ODI: 2013; T20I: 2011; IPL: 2010
Key Achievements Most runs by an Indian in a Test series in Australia; Fastest Indian to score 5,000 Test runs
Batting Stats Batting Average (Test): 45.88; Batting Average (ODI): 33.00
Impact in IPL Key top-order batsman for various IPL franchises; Known for his ability to anchor innings
Fitness Known for his stamina and resilience, able to bat for long periods in difficult conditions
Cheteshwar Pujara’s International Matches
Here’s a breakdown of some of Cheteshwar Pujara’s most significant international performances:
Match Type Opponent Date Venue Cheteshwar Pujara’s Performance
Test Australia 2018 Melbourne 192 runs, anchoring India’s batting in historic win
Test England 2021 Lord’s 45* and 50 runs, match-defining innings in tough conditions
Test South Africa 2018 Johannesburg 123 runs, helping India take control of the series
ODI West Indies 2017 Port of Spain 86 runs, solidifying his place as an anchor in the middle order
Test Australia 2021 Sydney 77 runs, contributing to India’s historic win at the SCG
Cheteshwar Pujara’s Batting Prowess: Format-by-Format Breakdown
Format Matches Innings Runs Average Highest Score
Test 95 172 6,415 45.88 193
ODI 5 5 153 33.00 86
T20I 2 2 28 14.00 23
Cheteshwar Pujara’s Impact Beyond the Field
Off the field, Cheteshwar Pujara is known for his dedication, discipline, and professionalism. He is one of the most respected figures in Indian cricket, known for his calm demeanor, his commitment to the game, and his contribution to India’s rise in Test cricket. Pujara’s legacy will be remembered for his resilience, his ability to deliver under pressure, and his role in some of India’s most iconic Test victories.