Virat Kohli paid a heartfelt tribute to his long-time teammate Cheteshwar Pujara, days after the veteran batter announced his retirement from all forms of cricket. Posting on Instagram, Kohli wrote: “Thank you for making my job easier at 4, Pujji. You’ve had an amazing career. Congratulations and wish you the best for what’s ahead. God bless @cheteshwar_pujara.”
Cheteshwar Pujara, who held the crucial No. 3 spot for over a decade, was often the rock in India’s top order, setting the stage for Kohli at No. 4. Together, the duo built some of India’s most memorable Test partnerships, especially in challenging overseas conditions.
The 37-year-old called time on his career on Sunday (August 24), receiving warm wishes from fans and fellow cricketers alike. Kohli’s message, though slightly delayed, struck a chord with many, a simple yet sincere nod from a teammate who shared countless hours with him at the crease.
A Bond Forged in the Middle
Under Virat Kohli’s Test captaincy, Pujara played some of the finest innings of his career. A standout was the 2018–19 tour of Australia, where he scored 521 runs across four Tests, including three centuries. He was named Player of the Series as India clinched a historic 2-1 victory, their first ever on Australian soil.
That tour also brought light-hearted memories. One clip showed a reluctant Pujara being pulled into a celebratory team dance, with Kohli later joking, “Pujara couldn’t even do that!” a moment that highlighted the mutual fondness they shared.
A Decade of Grit and Glory
Pujara’s patient, classical style provided the perfect foil to Kohli’s aggressive flair. Whether weathering storms or building pressure, their combination was vital to India’s overseas success. Their contrasting styles formed a dependable backbone during a golden era of Indian Test cricket.
End of a Test Era
Virat Kohli stepped away from Test cricket earlier in May 2025, and Pujara’s retirement just months later officially closes a chapter. Together, they were more than teammates they were the heartbeat of India’s batting for over a decade, anchoring many famous wins across the world.
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Karan Singh Rathod is a dedicated sports journalist known for his sharp attention to detail and flair for storytelling. With over a year of experience in writing and editorial work, he blends thorough research with compelling narratives to deliver engaging sports content. A passionate follower of football and cricket, he starts his mornings with a newspaper to stay updated with sports, fashion, and current affairs. Outside of journalism, Karan enjoys traveling and discovering new destinations.
