Star Indian batter Virat Kohli paid a heartfelt tribute to his former teammate Cheteshwar Pujara following Pujara’s retirement announcement on Sunday, August 24. Pujara, who represented India for 15 years in international cricket, has played 103 Tests, amassing 7,195 runs at an average of 43.6. His retirement marks the end of a career defined by resilience and consistency, particularly in the longest format. Kohli acknowledged Pujara’s ability to anchor the innings, enabling others in the middle order to play more freely. Kohli, who shared numerous crucial partnerships with Pujara, expressed his appreciation on Instagram. He wrote, “Thank you for making my job easier at 4 Pujji. You have had an amazing career. Congratulations and wish you the best for what is ahead. God bless." Under Kohli’s captaincy and former head coach Ravi Shastri, Pujara thrived at the No. 3 position in Tests, particularly during tours Down Under, contributing significantly to India’s historic consecutive Test series wins in Australia. Despite attempts to return after falling out of selection in 2023, alongside Ajinkya Rahane, Pujara’s comeback remained unfulfilled even after strong domestic performances. Read also: "I had to survive:" Akash Deep explains thoughts behind 50 against England Pujara’s legacy in Indian cricket The BCCI lauded Pujara’s enduring contribution. BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia sated, “Cheteshwar Pujara’s career is a shining example of perseverance and selflessness. He personified the spirit of Tests. His ability to grind opposition attacks and his immense powers of concentration made him the bulwark of India’s batting." Although Pujara’s ODI record was modest—scoring 51 runs in five matches—his impact in Test cricket remains unmatched. Pujara, reflecting on his career, said, “There are no regrets. I am very fortunate to have played for the Indian team for such a long time; not many players got that opportunity, so I am very thankful to my family and people who have supported me." His career stands as a testament to patience, grit, and selflessness in international cricket. With Kohli’s tribute and BCCI recognition, Pujara’s legacy as one of India’s finest long-format batsmen is firmly established.