PM Narendra Modi shares heartfelt message on Cheteshwar Pujara's international retirement

India’s long-time number three batter of the longest format, Cheteshwar Pujara, announced his retirement from international cricket. He brought down the curtains on his career but kept himself available for selection during the next Ranji Trophy 2025/26 season for Saurashtra.

The right-handed batter finished his red-ball career as the eighth leading run-getter for the Blue Brigade. With 7195 runs in 176 innings at an average of 43.60 and a strike rate of nearly 51.25, thanks to 19 centuries and 35 half-centuries at the best score of unbeaten 206 runs, Pujara finished ahead of Dilip Vengsarkar and just behind Sourav Ganguly. India’s PM Narendra Modi shared a special message on the batter.

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“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.” PM Narendra Modi expressed in a letter.

PM Narendra Modi shares special message on Cheteshwar Pujara's international retirement

Pujara’s best contribution for the national side came during the BGT 2019/20 down under when he smashed over 500 runs to win the series by 2-1. His contribution with the bat at number three, in taking the shine off the new ball to make it easy for the middle order batters, was exceptional.

“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.” PM Narendra Modi expressed in the letter.

“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.” Pujara wrote on his ‘X’ account (formerly known as Twitter).