Test specialist Cheteshwar Pujara, who announced his retirement from all forms of cricket on Sunday, revealed the four toughest bowlers he faced during his career — and none of them were from Asia.

The 37-year-old, who played 103 Tests and scored 7,195 runs at an average of 43.60, named Dale Steyn, Morne Morkel, James Anderson, and Pat Cummins as the most challenging bowlers he encountered.

Pujara’s Legacy in Test Cricket

Known for his grit and resilience, Pujara became the backbone of India’s Test batting order for over a decade. He was instrumental in India’s historic Border-Gavaskar Trophy wins in Australia in 2018–19 and 2020–21, playing marathon innings under immense pressure.

• 2018–19 Series: Pujara scored 521 runs in four Tests at an average of 74.42, with three centuries, including a best of 193.
• 2020–21 Series: He made 271 runs, enduring brutal spells from Australia’s fast bowlers, particularly at the Gabba Test, where he absorbed multiple body blows but stood firm in India’s match-winning chase.

Praise From Ravi Shastri

Former India head coach Ravi Shastri paid tribute to Pujara in a heartfelt message on X:
“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, India held the No. 1 Test ranking for five consecutive years, with Pujara playing a pivotal role in anchoring the batting line-up.

A Domestic Giant

Beyond international cricket, Pujara’s first-class career was equally remarkable. He amassed 21,301 runs in 278 matches, including 66 centuries and 81 fifties, underlining his status as one of India’s greatest red-ball batsmen.

Career Highlights

• Test debut: vs Australia, Bengaluru, October 9, 2010
• Total Tests: 103
• Runs: 7,195
• Hundreds: 19
• Fifties: 35
• Highest Score: 206*

Pujara’s career will be remembered for his unflinching defence, patience, and resilience — qualities that made him India’s modern-day “wall” in Test cricket.

Source: NDTV Sports
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