Cheteshwar Pujara, India’s rock at No. 3, defined Test cricket with his grit and patience. For 13 years, he anchored India’s batting, facing tough bowlers like Dale Steyn and Pat Cummins. His Test innings often saved or won matches, earning him a special place in cricket fans’ hearts. From his debut fifty in Bengaluru to heroic stands in Sydney and Brisbane, Pujara’s knocks were about determination.
He retired in August 2025, leaving behind 7195 runs in 103 Tests at an average of 43.60. His 19 Test centuries and 35 half-centuries show his class against teams like Australia and England. This article dives into his five best Test innings, showcasing his batting grit.
Whether it’s a Border-Gavaskar Trophy battle or a fight in South Africa, Pujara’s story inspires. Want to relive his magic? Check out our India vs Australia match scorecard for more epic moments. Let’s explore the knocks that made Pujara a Test cricket legend!
72 vs Australia, Bengaluru, 2010: A Dream Debut
Pujara’s Test cricket journey began with a bang in Bengaluru. At just 22, he stepped up on his debut against Australia. India needed 207 runs to win, a tricky chase. Promoted to No. 3, ahead of legend Rahul Dravid, Pujara scored 72 off 89 balls.
He faced fiery Mitchell Johnson, who dismissed him in the first innings. But in the second, Pujara’s batting grit shone. He danced down the pitch to counter spinner Nathan Hauritz. His knock left India just 61 runs short of victory.
Why Bengaluru 2010 Stands Out
Pujara’s debut showed his knack for big moments. Replacing Dravid at No. 3 was no small task. His quick 72, with crisp drives and bold footwork, set the tone for his career. This knock helped India seal a memorable win in the India vs Australia series. It proved Pujara could handle pressure against top bowlers. His Saurashtra cricket roots gave him the grit to shine.
153 vs South Africa, Johannesburg, 2013: Taming a Spicy Pitch
On a fiery Johannesburg track, Pujara faced South Africa’s fearsome pace attack. India were 59 ahead, at 23 for 1, when he walked in. He built a 70-run stand with Murali Vijay and a massive 222 with Virat Kohli. His 153 off 270 balls, with 21 fours, was pure class. Young cricketers can learn from his focus, seen in matches like India vs New Zealand.
Pujara’s defensive batting tamed Dale Steyn and Morne Morkel. He set South Africa a daunting 458-run target. The match ended in a draw, but Pujara’s Test innings was unforgettable. For more epic battles, see the South Africa vs New Zealand scorecard.
The Impact of Johannesburg’s Century
This Test century showed Pujara’s ability to anchor under pressure. Facing a hostile attack on a tough pitch, he stayed calm. His 153 ensured India stayed in control. It was a defining moment in India Test cricket, proving his value in overseas conditions. His partnership with Kohli was a highlight, much like India’s grit in the India vs Zimbabwe match.
202 vs Australia, Ranchi, 2017: A Marathon Masterpiece
In Ranchi, Pujara played one of Test cricket’s longest knocks. Australia posted 451, and India needed a big reply. Pujara, at No. 3, faced 525 balls for his 202, a double century. His batting grit frustrated Australia’s bowlers on a tough pitch.
He stitched a century stand with Vijay before carrying on alone. India declared at 603 for 9, and the match drew. This Test innings is the only time an Indian has faced over 500 balls in an innings. Check out similar heroics in the India vs Bangladesh timeline.
Why Ranchi’s Double Ton Is Legendary?
Pujara’s 202 was a Test cricket record for endurance. Facing tight bowling, he never wavered. His Pujara batting style—calm and focused—saved India from trouble. This knock cemented his role as India’s anchor. It’s a must-know moment for fans of the India vs New Zealand final.
123 and 71 vs Australia, Adelaide, 2018: The Lone Warrior
Adelaide 2018 saw Pujara at his best in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. India were 41 for 4 on day one. Pujara’s 123 off 246 balls, with next-best 37, took India to 250. His second-innings 71 set Australia a 323-run target, which they lost by 31.
His defensive batting was key against a strong Australian attack. Pujara’s patience outshone his teammates’ loose shots. His knocks led India to a historic win. Relive similar moments in the Australia vs South Africa clash.
Adelaide’s Game-Changing Knocks
Pujara’s twin efforts in Adelaide were match-defining. His first-innings Test century rescued India from collapse. The second-innings 71 showed his knack for big chases. This performance earned him Player of the Series in 2018-19, India’s first Test series win in Australia. Fans can explore more at the Sri Lanka vs Bangladesh scorecard.
50 and 77 vs Sydney, 2021 & 56 vs Brisbane, 2021: Grit Over Glory
In the 2020-21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, Pujara was a warrior. In Sydney, he scored 50 off 176 balls and 77 off 205, taking body blows. His batting grit helped India draw the Test, with Vihari and Ashwin holding firm. In Brisbane, his 56 off 211 was crucial for India’s series-winning chase.
Pujara’s resilience, seen in an ESPNcricinfo graphic of his Brisbane blows, inspired India’s 2-1 series win. For more thrilling finishes, check the South Africa vs Afghanistan scorecard.
Sydney and Brisbane’s Heroic Stands
Pujara’s Test innings in Sydney and Brisbane defined cricket resilience. He absorbed pain to protect India’s chances. His 77 in Sydney set up a famous draw. In Brisbane, his 56 paved the way for victory, echoing the India Women vs England Women match.
Pujara’s Test Legacy: A Career to Celebrate
Pujara’s 103 Tests yielded 7195 runs, with 19 Test centuries. He shone against Australia, England, and Sri Lanka, averaging 43.60. His Saurashtra cricket roots shaped his defensive batting. He retired in August 2025, after the WTC final, as a Test cricket icon.
His 2018-19 series in Australia, with 521 runs, was historic. Pujara’s knack for big knocks made him India’s backbone. Learn more about his legacy in the godfather of cricket feature. His domestic stints, like with Railways, are also notable—see the Railways vs Delhi scorecard.
Retirement and Beyond
Pujara’s retirement marked the end of an era. Joining Ashwin, Kohli, and Sharma in retiring, he left a void. His Test cricket records inspire young players. From Rajkot to the world, Pujara’s journey was epic, much like the first Women’s ODI World Cup.
Conclusion: Why Pujara’s Knocks Matter
Cheteshwar Pujara’s Test innings were more than runs—they were lessons in grit. From his 72 in Bengaluru to his 202 in Ranchi, he showed how to fight. His Test centuries against top teams like Australia and South Africa proved his class. Pujara’s cricket resilience saved India in tough spots, like Sydney and Brisbane 2021.
His retirement in 2025 closed a glorious chapter. With 7195 runs and 19 centuries, he’s a Test cricket legend. His Pujara batting style—patient and unyielding—inspired fans worldwide. Pujara’s legacy lives on in India Test cricket. Which knock is your favorite? Share below and celebrate this Saurashtra cricket hero!
