Indian cricket star Cheteshwar Pujara has officially announced his retirement from international cricket. Known as India’s “Wall 2.0” after Rahul Dravid, Pujara played 103 Tests and scored 7,195 runs with 19 centuries and 35 half-centuries. His calm presence at number three made him one of India’s most dependable Test batsmen.

But even after retirement, Pujara’s words are making headlines.

India’s Test Defeat and Pitch Controversy

Recently, India lost a three-match Test series at home against New Zealand, India’s first home Test series loss in 12 years. This defeat also cost India a spot in the World Test Championship final.

When asked about the series, Pujara made a strong statement: “A pitch favourable to spin bowling has a big impact on the batting of the Indian team. We prepare such pitches to qualify for the WTC final, but the results vary. These pitches are not always suitable for Test cricket.”

He explained that matches finishing in just three or four days are not ideal for the game. Instead, Pujara suggested preparing pitches that last till the fourth or fifth day, giving batters and bowlers equal chances.

His comments are significant because in the series, 108 wickets fell, and 81 were taken by spin bowlers.

Life After Retirement

Pujara last played for India in the 2023 ICC World Test Championship final. After being sidelined, he focused on county and domestic cricket, but a recall never came. At 37, he has now chosen to move forward.

But his next innings is already set:

• Commentary: Pujara is working with Sony Sports Network and says he enjoys analysing the game.

• Coaching & NCA: He is open to coaching roles and hinted at working with the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bangalore. Reports suggest he could even replace VVS Laxman as NCA chief in the future.

Cheteshwar Pujara thanking everyone for the love. ❤️pic.twitter.com/5JWOX223kH

— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) August 26, 2025

Pujara’s Message to Young Cricketers

Despite being known for his patient batting style, Pujara accepts modern cricket’s aggressive approach. However, he stressed that Test cricket still needs traditional batting. His advice to youngsters: “Play all three formats. Learn the art of Test cricket but also adapt to T20 and ODI styles.”

This shows his balanced view respecting tradition while embracing modern changes.

A Legacy Beyond Runs

Pujara’s career is more than numbers. He saved countless matches for India with sheer determination. Fans will always remember his heroic knocks in tough conditions, including the 2018–19 Border-Gavaskar Trophy win in Australia.

Now, as he begins his journey as a commentator and mentor, his contribution to Indian cricket will continue in a different form.