Senior Congress leader Shashi Tharoor has voiced disappointment over the way Cheteshwar Pujara’s Test career ended, stressing that the stalwart deserved a more dignified farewell. The 36-year-old batter, who built his reputation on grit and resilience, announced retirement from all forms of Indian cricket this week.
During his illustrious career, Pujara scored 7,195 runs in 103 Tests at an average of 43.60, including 19 centuries. Known as India’s “Mr. Reliable” at No.3, he was instrumental in several iconic victories overseas. However, after the 2023 World Test Championship Final defeat against Australia, he was dropped as selectors turned to younger options.
Tharoor’s Emotional Note
Taking to X, Tharoor wrote:
“I can’t help feeling a pang of regret at the retirement of @cheteshwar1. Even if it was inevitable after his recent exclusions, and even if he has nothing left to prove, he deserved a little longer in the saddle and a dignified farewell worthy of his outstanding Test career for India.”
Pujara’s Fight in Domestic Cricket
Despite his ouster, Pujara refused to give up. He returned to domestic cricket and kept piling on runs, scoring heavily for Saurashtra. Across 278 first-class matches, he accumulated 21,301 runs at an average of 51.82, with 66 centuries and a career-best 352 showcasing his red-ball dominance.
Tharoor acknowledged this resilience:
“When he was dropped, with typical gumption, he returned to the domestic scene and racked up a number of impressive scores. But the selectors had decided to move on.”
‘Badly Missed in Australia’
Reflecting on Pujara’s legacy, Tharoor revealed that he first noticed him during an India A tour of England two decades ago. He also lamented India’s struggles in the 2024–25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, where Pujara’s absence was felt as the team slumped to a 1-3 defeat in Australia.
“He was badly missed on the last tour of Australia. All the best, @cheteshwar1 Pujara! And thank you for your years of service to Indian cricket!”
With his unmatched grit and marathon knocks, Pujara leaves behind a monumental red-ball legacy that Indian cricket will find hard to replace.
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