Cheteshwar Pujara Biography: Life Story, Career, Records, Family & Achievements
Introduction
Cheteshwar Pujara is one of India’s finest Test cricketers, renowned for his patience, determination, and classical batting technique. Often compared to Rahul Dravid for his temperament and solid defense, Pujara has been India’s go-to batsman in Test cricket for over a decade. His resilience in tough overseas conditions has earned him respect as a modern-day wall of Indian cricket.
Personal Information
- Full Name: Cheteshwar Arvind Pujara
- Date of Birth: 25 January 1988
- Birthplace: Rajkot, Gujarat, India
- Nationality: Indian
- Zodiac Sign: Aquarius
Physical Appearance
- Height: 5 feet 11 inches (180 cm)
- Weight: Approx. 71 kg
- Hair Color: Black
- Eye Color: Dark Brown
Early Life & Family Background
Pujara was born to Arvind Pujara, a former Ranji Trophy cricketer, and Reena Pujara. His father played a key role in his early cricketing journey, training him rigorously. Pujara lost his mother at a young age but carried her blessings and became deeply dedicated to cricket.
Domestic Career
- Represented Saurashtra in Ranji Trophy.
- Made headlines with a triple century (302*) in U-19 cricket.
- Consistently among the highest run-getters in Indian domestic cricket.
International Career
Debut Matches
- Test Debut: 9 October 2010 vs Australia.
- ODI Debut: 1 August 2013 vs Zimbabwe.
Career Highlights
- Scored his maiden Test century (159) against New Zealand in 2012.
- Instrumental in India’s 2018–19 Test series win in Australia, scoring 521 runs in the series.
- Notched up double centuries against Australia and England, proving his ability to bat long hours.
Batting Style & Strengths
- Known for his classical batting technique, immense patience, and strong defensive game.
- Nicknamed “The New Wall”, often compared to Rahul Dravid.
- Specializes in grinding out bowlers and wearing them down in Test matches.
Records & Achievements
- Over 7,000 Test runs for India.
- Multiple double centuries in Test cricket.
- Played 100+ Tests for India.
- Second Indian (after Rahul Dravid) to face 500+ balls in a Test innings.
- Winner of the 2018–19 ICC Test Player of the Year (ESPNcricinfo Awards).
County Cricket
- Played county cricket in England for Yorkshire, Nottinghamshire, and Sussex, gaining valuable overseas experience.
IPL Career
- Played briefly for Kolkata Knight Riders, Royal Challengers Bangalore, and Kings XI Punjab, but was more suited to the longer format.
Personal Life
Cheteshwar Pujara married Puji Pujara (Puja Pabari) in 2013. The couple has a daughter named Aditi.
Legacy
Cheteshwar Pujara will be remembered as one of India’s greatest Test batsmen of the modern era. His fighting spirit, especially in overseas tours, and his ability to anchor innings make him a priceless asset in India’s cricketing history.
