Ravi Shastri Hails Cheteshwar Pujara as a “Real Warrior” After Retirement

New Delhi [India], August 24: Former India head coach Ravi Shastri paid a heartfelt tribute to veteran batter Cheteshwar Pujara after his announcement to retire from all forms of cricket, calling him a “real warrior.”

Taking to his official X handle, Shastri wrote,
“A real warrior. He was instrumental in my stint as coach for India being the No. 1 side for 5 years on the trot and the two back-to-back series wins in Australia where he was simply brilliant. Well done Puji. God bless.”

Under Shastri’s tenure as head coach, India dominated Test cricket, scripting history by winning consecutive Test series in Australia in 2018-19 and 2020-21. Pujara was the cornerstone of both triumphs, absorbing pressure against world-class bowling attacks and grinding out match-defining runs.

Pujara’s international journey began in October 2010 against Australia in Bengaluru. Over a career spanning 103 Tests, he amassed 7,195 runs at an average of 43.60, including 19 centuries and 35 fifties, with a highest score of 206*.

He is most celebrated for his role in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy victories. In 2018-19, Pujara top-scored with 521 runs in four matches, averaging 74.42 with three centuries. In 2020-21, despite fierce short-pitched attacks, he stood firm, scoring 271 runs, including three gritty half-centuries. At The Gabba, he endured repeated body blows but refused to budge, paving the way for India’s historic triumph.

Beyond international cricket, Pujara carved out a legendary domestic career, amassing over 21,301 runs in 278 first-class matches, decorated with 66 centuries and 81 half-centuries.

Known for his resilience, patience, and determination, Cheteshwar Pujara will be remembered as one of India’s greatest Test specialists—an old-school warrior who anchored India’s most glorious overseas victories.