Virat Kohli Tribute to Cheteshwar Pujara: Why No. 4 Was Easier Because of Pujji
Cheteshwar Pujara’s retirement from all forms of Indian cricket marked the end of an era in Test cricket. Known for his resilience, grit, and old-school technique, Pujara was often referred to as the “wall” of modern Indian cricket. While his numbers speak volumes—7,195 runs in 103 Tests at an average of 43.60, along with a mountain of runs in first-class cricket—what stood out most was the respect he earned from teammates and opponents alike. Virat Kohli Tribute to Cheteshwar Pujara
One of the most significant tributes came from none other than Virat Kohli, India’s former Test skipper and one of the greatest batsmen of his generation. Kohli, who has dominated world cricket with his aggressive style and unmatched consistency, openly acknowledged that Pujara played a crucial role in shaping his own success at No. 4. Virat Kohli Tribute to Cheteshwar Pujara
Kohli’s Heartfelt Message
A few days after Pujara announced his retirement, Virat Kohli shared an Instagram story that quickly went viral among cricket fans. 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 you @cheteshwar_pujara.”
Though the message came slightly late, it carried immense weight. Kohli admitted that his job at No. 4 was easier because of the stability Pujara provided at No. 3. For years, Indian cricket fans witnessed the pattern—if Pujara held the fort, Kohli could walk in with a calmer mind, ready to dominate.
The Importance of Pujara at No. 3
Cheteshwar Pujara’s presence at the crease was more than just about runs; it was about assurance. His ability to absorb pressure, block out world-class fast bowlers, and tire out opposition attacks made him invaluable.
Whenever India faced tough conditions in Australia, England, or South Africa, it was often Pujara who stood tall, blunting the new ball and shielding the middle order. His stoic batting style allowed players like Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane, and Rohit Sharma to play their natural games.
This was most evident in India’s historic 2018-19 Test series win in Australia. Pujara scored a phenomenal 521 runs in seven innings, including three centuries, and was named Player of the Series. Kohli himself acknowledged that without Pujara’s resilience, India’s dream run under his captaincy would not have been possible.
Ashwin Echoes Kohli’s Sentiments
Ravichandran Ashwin, India’s premier spinner, also joined in praising Pujara’s legacy. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ashwin highlighted how Pujara’s work often went unnoticed compared to the glamour of stroke-makers like Kohli and Rohit Sharma. Virat Kohli Tribute to Cheteshwar Pujara
“What did Cheteshwar Pujara stand for in Indian cricket? I said his contributions are no less than Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. Obviously, a lot of people talk about their contributions. The attention is not there. Not every cricketer gets the attention, but that does not mean their contribution is any less. Pujara’s contribution at No.3, believe it or not, was instrumental in helping Virat Kohli also make a lot of his runs.” Virat Kohli Tribute to Cheteshwar Pujara
Ashwin’s words reflected a truth that many cricket lovers already knew—Pujara was the unsung hero of India’s golden era in Test cricket. Virat Kohli Tribute to Cheteshwar Pujara
Pujara’s Career Highlights
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Debut: Test debut against Australia in Bengaluru (2010).
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Most Memorable Innings: 2018-19 Australia series (521 runs, 3 centuries, Player of the Series).
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Legacy in Domestic Cricket: 21,301 first-class runs, making him one of the most prolific red-ball players in Indian cricket history.
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Technique and Temperament: Known for his calmness, patience, and ability to wear down bowlers over long periods.
The Kohli-Pujara Partnership
The Kohli-Pujara dynamic defined an era. Kohli, with his aggression and flamboyant stroke play, and Pujara, with his monk-like concentration, created a perfect balance for India’s Test team. Kohli’s acknowledgment of Pujara’s role shows how deeply he valued that balance. Virat Kohli Tribute to Cheteshwar Pujara
In cricket, partnerships are not only about runs; they are about impact. While Kohli’s centuries often grabbed the headlines, it was Pujara’s stonewalling that set the stage for those knocks. Together, they created countless memorable moments for Indian cricket fans, especially overseas. Virat Kohli Tribute to Cheteshwar Pujara
Why Pujara’s Retirement Hurts
At 37, Pujara may no longer be part of India’s Test setup, but his absence will be felt deeply. His approach was unique in the modern game, where fast scoring often overshadows resilience. For nearly 13 years, he proved that Test cricket is still about patience, mental strength, and character. Virat Kohli Tribute to Cheteshwar Pujara
With Pujara’s departure, Indian cricket loses not just a reliable No. 3 but also a role model for young cricketers who dream of excelling in the red-ball format. His story proves that even in the age of T20 leagues, there is space for classic Test match batting. Virat Kohli Tribute to Cheteshwar Pujara
Virat Kohli’s tribute to Cheteshwar Pujara wasn’t just a message of respect; it was an acknowledgment of how vital Pujara was in shaping India’s golden period in Test cricket. By calling Pujara the reason his job at No. 4 was easier, Kohli highlighted the essence of team sport—behind every great batsman is someone holding the fort.
Cheteshwar Pujara may not have the glamour of a Kohli or the flair of a Rohit, but his legacy is cemented as one of India’s finest Test batsmen. And as Kohli and Ashwin said, Indian cricket’s success story at the highest level would not have been possible without him.
