Cheteshwar Pujara retirement: Sachin Tendulkar, Yuvraj Singh pay tribute to star

Sachin Tendulkar, Yuvraj Singh and VVS Laxman paid tribute to Cheteshwar Pujara after the Indian batter announced his retirement from all forms of cricket. Pujara, who was one of India's most dependable batters in Test cricket, scored 7,195 runs at an average of 43.60, including 19 centuries across 103 matches.

The Saurashtra batter last played for India during the World Test Championship final in 2023 against Australia. Tributes have been pouring in for Pujara since he announced his retirement, with Indian coach Gautam Gambhir leading the way. Tendulkar took to X to post a heartfelt message for Pujara, saying it was reassuring to see him walk out to bat at No.3.

The Indian legend said that Pujara's heroics during the 2018 Australia series stands out for him. The Saurashtra batter scored 521 runs in four matches during India's first Test series win in Australia and was adjudged as the Player Of The Series.

"Pujara, it was always reassuring to see you walk out at No.3. You brought calm, courage, and a deep love for Test cricket every time you played. Your solid technique, patience, and composure under pressure have been a pillar for the team. Out of many, the 2018 series win in Australia stands out, it wouldn’t have been possible without your incredible resilience and match-winning runs. Congratulations on a wonderful career. Good luck for the next chapter. Enjoy your second innings!" wrote Tendulkar on X.

Yuvraj and Laxman pay tributes

Yuvraj also paid a heartfelt tribute to Pujara, saying that he was a player who always put his mind, body and soul for the country.

"Someone who always put his mind, body and soul for the country! Many congratulations on an outstanding career Puji! See you on the other side!" said Yuvraj.

Laxman said that the Gabba Test win, where Pujara dealt with several body blows, was the defining moment in his career.

"From the time I first saw Pujara, his potential was evident, and it was truly inspiring to see that potential translate into such remarkable performances. His courage, grit, and determination have always stood out, and the body blows he endured in the historic Gabba Test win against Australia perfectly symbolised Pujara the cricketer — someone willing to give everything for his country. Well done @cheteshwar_pujara , and wishing you a happy and fulfilling second innings," said Laxman.

Pujara leaves from Indian cricket as the country’s second-highest run-getter at No.3 in Tests, scoring 6,488 runs in 94 matches with 18 centuries and 32 half-centuries.