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Cheteshwar Pujara, the quintessential Test batter and the rock of India‘s middle order for over a decade, has announced his retirement from international cricket. Pujara, who last played for India in the World Test Championship final 2023 , has brought an end to a career defined not by aggression or flamboyant stroke play, but by pure grit, unwavering resilience, and a deep-seated respect for the longest format of the game. His legacy is etched in the historic series wins he helped forge, especially on foreign soil. As cricket fans celebrate his monumental contribution, here are five of his most memorable knocks.
Here are the top 5 Test knocks of Cheteshwar Pujara in Test cricket:
1. 206 not out vs England, Ahmedabad (2012)
In just his sixth Test, Pujara announced his arrival on the international stage with a monumental, unbeaten double century. Facing a quality English attack featuring James Anderson and Graeme Swann, the young batsman showed remarkable maturity and concentration, batting for over 500 minutes. His marathon effort not only put India in a commanding position but also demonstrated his ability to play long, match-defining innings. This knock cemented his place as India’s long-term No. 3 and set the tone for a career built on attritional excellence.
2. 123 vs Australia, Adelaide (2018)
This innings is arguably his most significant in a Test career filled with crucial performances. On the opening day of a historic tour, India were in deep trouble at 41 for 4. Against a fearsome Australian pace attack, Pujara stood tall, absorbing immense pressure and fighting a lone battle. He forged partnerships with the lower order, shepherding the tail with a mix of gritty defense and well-timed aggression. His masterful knock of 123 proved to be the turning point of the game, setting the stage for India’s first-ever Test series victory on Australian soil.
3. 145 not out vs Sri Lanka, Colombo (2015)
Returning to the team as an opener, Pujara delivered a masterclass on a challenging pitch at a crucial time. In a series decider where India’s openers had struggled, Pujara carried his bat through the first innings. His unwavering focus and patient stroke play were a stark contrast to the chaos around him. This fighting century, achieved in difficult conditions against a strong Sri Lankan attack, showcased his value to the team. His innings proved to be the bedrock of India’s total, eventually helping the team secure a historic series win on Lankan soil after 22 years.
4. 153 vs South Africa, Johannesburg (2013)
In a Test match renowned for its thrilling conclusion, Pujara’s second-innings century was a masterclass in batting in challenging conditions. Against a world-class pace attack of Dale Steyn, Morne Morkel, and Vernon Philander, Pujara played a disciplined 270-ball vigil. His 153 runs helped India set a daunting target of 458, giving the bowlers a fighting chance. Though the match ended in a draw, his knock in a hostile environment against a fearsome bowling attack remains one of the finest he has played.
5. 202 vs Australia, Ranchi (2017)
This epic double century is a perfect encapsulation of Pujara’s batting philosophy. He batted for an incredible 525 balls, the most by an Indian in a single Test innings, and stayed at the crease for over 11 hours. On a deteriorating Ranchi pitch, he wore down the Australian bowlers, showcasing incredible concentration and stamina. This marathon effort not only secured a crucial draw for India but also exemplified his unwavering commitment to his game. It was a knock that proved once and for all that Pujara was the man for a crisis, capable of consuming time and blunting the opposition’s most potent weapons.
Also READ: Indian cricket fraternity hails Cheteshwar Pujara after his retirement from international cricket
