Pujara shares message from PM Modi on retirement: Your legacy goes beyond mere numbers

Cheteshwar Pujara shared a message from Prime Minister Narendra Modi after announcing his retirement from all forms of cricket on August 24. Modi lauded Pujara for his remarkable contributions to Indian cricket, emphasising his ability to uphold the values of Test cricket in an era dominated by shorter formats. He praised Pujara’s temperament, focus, and the calm assurance he consistently provided to India’s batting line-up.

The Prime Minister also highlighted Pujara’s pivotal role in India’s overseas Test triumphs, most notably the historic 2018–19 series win in Australia, where he was named Player of the Series. He noted that Pujara’s legacy lies in the stability and resilience he brought to the team, while also acknowledging his immense contributions to domestic cricket, particularly his long-standing association with Saurashtra and his efforts in putting Rajkot firmly on the cricketing map.

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In response, Pujara expressed gratitude to Modi for the recognition and reflected with pride on his cricketing journey. His retirement at 37 marks the end of a distinguished career spanning 103 Tests, during which he amassed 7,195 runs at an average of 43.60, including 19 centuries. Known as one of India’s most reliable Test specialists, Pujara leaves behind a legacy as a cornerstone of India’s red-ball cricket.

Here’s PM Modi’s message for Cheteshwar Pujara

I learnt about your decision to retire from all forms of cricket. Following the announcement, there has been an outpouring of appreciation from the fans and the cricketing fraternity about your remarkable achievements. I convey my heartiest congratulations and warmest greetings on a spectacular cricketing career.

In an age dominated by shorter formats of cricket, you were a reminder of the beauty of the longer format of the game. Your unflappable temperament and ability to bat long hours with great concentration made you the fulcrum of the Indian batting line-up.

Your outstanding cricketing career is dotted with moments of remarkable skill and resolve, especially in challenging conditions overseas. For example, fans will always remember instances like the Tests in Australia, when you laid the foundation for India's historic first-ever series win on Australian soil! Standing tall against one of the most potent bowling attacks, you showed what it meant to shoulder responsibility for the team.

There have been many series victories, centuries, double centuries and accolades in your career. But no numbers can capture the sense of calm that your presence gave to fans and teammates, that the team's fate was in safe hands. This is truly your abiding legacy that goes beyond mere numbers.

Your passion for the game was also reflected in the fact that even while being an international cricketer, you made it a point to play first-class cricket, whether it was for Saurashtra, or abroad. Your long association with Saurashtra cricket and your contribution to putting Rajkot on the cricketing map will remain a source of immense pride for every youngster in the region.

I am sure that your father, a cricketer himself as well as your mentor, is proud of you. Puja and Aditi must be delighted to be able to spend more time with you. They have all made great sacrifices to support you along the way.

Beyond the field, your in-depth analysis as a commentator continues to add great value to cricket enthusiasts, who look forward to hearing your insights. I am confident that you will keep yourself associated with the game and inspire budding cricketers.

Best wishes for your journey ahead.