Runs, centuries, records. For Cheteshwar Pujara, it has always been about being above all these. Retiring from cricket on August 24, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said his true legacy is his grit and perseverance, which led India to some of its greatest victories overseas.
Cheteshwar Pujara retired from all forms of cricket on August 24, ending a 17-year career that saw him become one of India’s most reliable Test batsmen. Prime Minister Narendra Modi was among the first to send a message of praise, highlighting Pujara’s calm composure and his role in India’s historic overseas win.
Pujara had played 103 Tests for India, scoring 7,195 runs at an average of 43.60 with 19 centuries. He became known as one of the most reliable No. 3 batsmen in the modern game.
One of his defining chapters came in the 2018-19 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia. Pujara’s three centuries and long stay at the crease helped dismantle the hosts and India register a historic first Test series win on Australian soil.
Upon his retirement, Narendra Modi sent a personal message giving him praise and best wishes for the road ahead. Pujara shared his gratitude on Twitter, saying: I was honoured to receive a letter of appreciation on my retirement from our Honourable Prime Minister. The warm sentiments expressed are much appreciated. While I venture into my second innings, I cherish every memory on the field, and all the love and appreciation I have received. Thank you Sir.
PM Narendra Modi’s message for Cheteshwar Pujara
I learnt about your decision to retire from all forms of cricket. Following the announcement, there has been an outpouring of appreciation from the fans and the cricketing fraternity about your remarkable achievements. I convey my heartiest congratulations and warmest greetings on a spectacular cricketing career.
In an age dominated by shorter formats of cricket, you were a reminder of the beauty of the longer format of the game. Your unflappable temperament and ability to bat long hours with great concentration made you the fulcrum of the Indian batting line-up.
Your outstanding cricketing career is dotted with moments of remarkable skill and resolve, especially in challenging conditions overseas. For example, fans will always remember instances like the Tests in Australia, when you laid the foundation for India’s historic first-ever series win on Australian soil! Standing tall against one of the most potent bowling attacks, you showed what it meant to shoulder responsibility for the team.
There have been many series victories, centuries, double centuries and accolades in your career. But no numbers can capture the sense of calm that your presence gave to fans and teammates, that the team’s fate was in safe hands. This is truly your abiding legacy that goes beyond mere numbers.
Your passion for the game was also reflected in the fact that even while being an international cricketer, you made it a point to play first-class cricket, whether it was for Saurashtra, or abroad. Your long association with Saurashtra cricket and your contribution to putting Rajkot on the cricketing map will remain a source of immense pride for every youngster in the region.
I am sure that your father, a cricketer himself as well as your mentor, is proud of you. Puja and Aditi must be delighted to be able to spend more time with you. They have all made great sacrifices to support you along the way.
Beyond the field, your in-depth analysis as a commentator continues to add great value to cricket enthusiasts, who look forward to hearing your insights. I am confident that you will keep yourself associated with the game and inspire budding cricketers.
Best wishes for your journey ahead.
