Ex-India captain Virat Kohli thanks Pujara for easing his No. 4 responsibilities, lauds his “outstanding” career, and conveys heartfelt wishes for what lies ahead.
Cheteshwar Pujara’s decision to bid farewell to all formats of cricket has sparked heartfelt tributes across the cricket world. One of the most heartfelt messages came from Virat Kohli, who shared a touching tribute on social media, reflecting on their years of playing together.
Kohli’s Emotional Message
Virat Kohli took to Instagram to post an emotional note for his long-time teammate, sharing a picture from their playing days. Kohli wrote: “Thank you for making my job easier at 4 pujji. You’ve had an amazing career. Congratulations and wish you the best for what’s ahead. God bless @cheteshwar_pujara.” His words highlighted the camaraderie and respect between the two batting stalwarts.
Cheteshwar Pujara, often hailed as the backbone of India’s Test batting lineup, has had an illustrious career that spans over 13 remarkable years. He proudly represented India in 103 Test matches, amassing 7,195 runs at an impressive average of nearly 44, which includes 19 centuries and 35 half-centuries. Frequently compared to the legendary Rahul Dravid for his solid technique and unwavering patience, Pujara has delivered some of the most resilient performances in modern Test cricket.
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His contributions were pivotal in India’s historic series victories abroad, especially during the 2018–19 and 2020–21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy triumphs in Australia, where his tenacity against fierce fast bowlers earned him accolades worldwide. Pujara’s knack for occupying the crease for extended periods turned him into a nightmare for bowlers and a savior for India on countless occasions.
He also had a brief stint in ODIs, scoring 51 runs in 5 matches, his true impact was felt in the longest format of the game. Additionally, he found success in domestic cricket with Saurashtra and in county cricket in England, further solidifying his reputation as a world-class batsman.
Impact on Virat Kohli and Team India
According to Kohli, Pujara’s resilience at No. 3 consistently lightened his load at No. 4 by absorbing immense pressure and tiring out opposition attacks. Together, they forged a formidable partnership, accumulating over 3,400 Test runs together, with memorable century and half-century stands that have been instrumental in shaping India’s modern Test successes.
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Reactions Across Cricketing Circles
The news of Pujara’s retirement has evoked warm and emotional messages from players and fans alike across the cricketing fraternity. Ravichandran Ashwin lauded his invaluable contributions, while fans celebrated him as the true successor to Rahul Dravid. His steadfast temperament and fighting spirit have undoubtedly left an indelible mark on Indian cricket.
