Following his announcement earlier this year that he will be retiring from all forms of Indian cricket, Cheteshwar Pujara expressed his emotions while watching the Ranji Trophy begin from the sidelines. The right-handed batter announced on social media on August 24 that he was leaving the beautiful game.
In red-ball cricket, Pujara was a productive player during his successful career, particularly in the Ranji Trophy, India’s top first-class cricket competition. After achieving the feat nine times, he holds the joint-most double hundreds in the Ranji Trophy.
On Wednesday, October 15, the 37-year-old acknowledged that it seems strange for him to be excluded from the Ranji Trophy as its 91st season began. But he chose to go back in time and reflect on the good times he had participating in the Ranji Trophy for Saurashtra since making his debut in 2005. Additionally, the Rajkot native wished the players participating in the 2025–2026 season the best of luck.
I haven’t played since my Ranji debut in 2005, so it feels strange to be off today as the Ranji Trophy season begins. However, it provides me with the opportunity to consider the significance of the tournament for Indian cricket and recall some happy times spent playing with my state teammates over the years,” the 37-year-old posted on his personal Instagram account.
“To every player beginning their season today, I wish you all the best of luck in the 2025–2026 campaign. This is a unique competition, so seize the chance!” Cheteshwar Pujara went on to say.
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Cheteshwar Pujara represented India in 103 Test matches.
After Rahul Dravid retired, he solidified his position as the third batsman for India. In the longest format of the game, Cheteshwar Pujara averaged an astounding 43.61 and finished with 7195 runs. During his career, he recorded 19 hundreds and 35 fifties.
The veteran has branched out into commentary after ending his playing career. Fans can learn a great deal about the game from his extensive expertise and years of playing experience.
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