Veteran batter Cheteshwar Pujara was recently honored in a grand felicitation ceremony at the Niranjan Shah Stadium in Rajkot on the eve of the third Test between India and England, celebrating Pujara’s significant contributions to the sport over more than a decade. The Saurashtra Cricket Association, which hosted the ceremony, also took this opportunity to rename their stadium after the veteran administrator, Niranjan Shah.

Pujara, who has represented India in 103 Test matches and scored 19 hundreds along with 35 fifties, expressed his heartfelt thanks for the recognition. In a message filled with gratitude, he acknowledged the support of the Saurashtra Cricket Association and Jay Shah, the BCCI secretary. He noted the honor of being celebrated at a venue that pays homage to the rich legacy of cricket.

“Overwhelmed with gratitude. Thankful to @saucricket and @JayShah for the felicitation. It’s an honour to mark this occasion at the Niranjan Shah Stadium, a place that stands as a tribute to the rich heritage of our wonderful game. Thanks to my teammates, coaches, and fans who’ve been a part of this journey so far, and I look forward to continue contributing to my country,” Pujara posted on X.

The ceremony was not just about Pujara; his teammate Ravindra Jadeja was also felicitated. Both players have shared a long history, having played together since their under-14 days for Saurashtra. Pujara reminisced about his early days in cricket, the challenges he faced, and the journey that led him to where he is today. He extended his appreciation to his teammates, coaches, and fans who have been part of his remarkable cricketing journey.

As Pujara posted his message of thanks, he looked forward to continuing his service to the nation in the realm of cricket. His dedication and performance have made him an integral part of the Indian cricket team, and this felicitation stands as a testament to his enduring impact on the game.

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