NEW DELHI: Indian batter Cheteshwar Pujara, who has been out of the national side for over two years, has announced his retirement from all forms of Indian cricket with immediate effect. He shared the news through a heartfelt post on social media.

"Wearing the Indian jersey, singing the anthem, and trying my best each time I stepped on the field - it's impossible to put into words what it truly meant," Pujara posted on X. "But as they say, all good things must come to an end, and with immense gratitude I have decided to retire from all forms of Indian cricket.

"Thank you for all the love and support!"

Pujara, 37, represented India in 103 Tests and 5 ODIs since making his debut in 2010. He amassed 7,195 Test runs at an average of 43.60, which included 19 centuries and 35 half-centuries.

With his decision to retire from all cricket, Pujara becomes the fourth Indian cricketer to retire from Test cricket recently, following R Ashwin in December 2024 and Virat Kohli along with Rohit Sharma earlier this year ahead of the England tour.

Pujara last featured for India in the World Test Championship final against Australia at The Oval in June 2023.

"As a little boy from the small town of Rajkot, along with my parents, I set out to aim for the stars; and dreamt to be a part of the Indian cricket team," Pujara wrote on his Instagram post. "Little did I know then that this game would give me so much - invaluable opportunities, experiences, purpose, love, and above all a chance to represent my state and this great nation.

"I would like to thank the BCCI, and Saurashtra Cricket Association for the opportunity and support through my cricket career. I am equally grateful to all the teams, franchises and counties I have been able to represent over the years.

"The game has taken me to places across the globe - and the passionate support and energy of the fans has always been a constant. I have been humbled by the wishes and motivation wherever I have played and will always remain grateful."