Born To Bat, Cheteshwar Hangs His Boots

Pujara's average against spin since 2013 is highest among Indian batters with 1200 runs or more. Yashasvi Jaiswal averages 77.23 with 1004 runs so far against spin

- GOMESH S @Chennai

THERE it was, the official announcement at 11.11 on a mundane Sunday morning. Cheteshwar Pujara is no longer an active cricketer. After 13 years and 103 Tests, the last of the batting stalwarts from the generation of R Ashwin, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma joined them in the legion of retired cricketers.

"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. But as they say, all good things must come to an end," the 37-year-old posted on social media.

Now, unlike the other aforementioned three, Pujara's retirement does not come as a surprise or a shock. In fact, his last appearance for India came two years ago at the World Test Championship final. And yet, there is a sense of warmth in the adulation and tributes that have followed since his announcement.