Four More Indian Cricket Legends on the Verge of Retirement after Pujara

The arena of cricket is experiencing a recent shift. Stalwarts are announcing retirement. Meanwhile, younger talents are making their space in cricket. The speculations are buzzing around four big names in the Indian cricket team. They are considering retirement.

Their long absence from playing through the sides of core Indian cricket team is seen. This lack of opportunities is indicating the end of their career from international cricket. While they have not made any official statement, the speculations are rising around their retirement. 

Also read: Ashwin announces his retirement from IPL to focus on International League

The Turning Point: Pujara’s Retirement Sets the Tone

Cheteshwar Pujara, one of India’s most dependable test specialists, officially announced his retirement from international cricket on 24 August 2025. Pujara played his last test match in June 2023 against Australia. He had been out of the team for more than two years before taking the decision. His farewell marks the end of his personal journey. It also symbolizes the wider transition Indian cricket is experiencing. Experienced names are stepping aside, and fresh faces are being given opportunities.

Pujara’s retirement has reignited conversations about other senior players. These players may soon follow suit because of their long absence from the squad. There is also rising competition from younger talents.

Ishant Sharma, the Forgotten Warrior of Indian Pace

Ishant Sharma had been the backbone for India’s pace attack in test cricket. He had not played from Nation’s side since years. His last appearance was noted in October 2013 in a T-20 match. In ODIs, his last game was in January 2016. His last test match was in November 2021. 

Ishant had been an excellent player with 105 test matches. He has taken over 300 wickets. He has played a pivotal role in securing India’s win overseas, especially in England and Australia. However, with younger pacers like Mohammed Siraj, Jasprit Bumrah, and Akashdeep taking the lead, Ishant has quietly faded away. Many cricket followers feel it is only a matter of time before he formally announces his retirement.

The Swing Specialist: Bhuvneshwar Kumar

Bhuvneshwar Kumar known for his swing bowling has consistently been absent from Indian cricket for years. Despite his excellent talent, his injuries which he faced reduced his pace and consistency became a disadvantage for his career.

Young bowlers are taking the lead. As a result, it becomes difficult for Bhuvneshwar to compete. Opportunities are being provided to the young bowlers. With his absence from Indian cricket, his chance of staying is slim. There is a high chance of him seeking retirement anytime soon.

His last ODI was in January 2022. His last T20 was in November 2022 against New Zealand. His final Test appearance was in January 2018.

Mohammed Shami: Still in Contention, But on the Sidelines

Mohammed Shami remains the most active among the four but has also faced prolonged absence in recent months. His last Test match for India was in June 2023. He was not included in the five-test series against England this year. 

Shami played a T20 in February 2025. He was part of India’s ODI squad in March. His omission from the Asia Cup T20 squad raised eyebrows. Shami has been one of India’s most consistent performers across formats. He has taken more than 400 international wickets. He is still considered among the best with the new ball. However, with injuries, workload management, and the emergence of younger bowlers his role in the team has diminished.

Shami might not retire immediately. However, his repeated exclusion raises serious questions. How long can he realistically wait for a permanent return?

Ajinkya Rahane: The Silent Servant of Indian Cricket

Ajinkya Rahane, known for his calm leadership and gritty batting, has also been on the fringes for quite some time.  His last Test appearance was in July 2023. His last ODI was in 2018. His final T20 was in 2016. 

Rahane was once hailed as India’s most reliable overseas batsman. He played a pivotal role in several historic Test wins. One of these was the 2020–21 series victory in Australia. There, he captained the side after Virat Kohli’s departure.

Despite his achievements, inconsistency in recent years pushed him out of the selectors’ plans. Younger middle-order batsmen like Shubman Gill, K L Rahul, and Shreyas Iyer are cementing their places. Therefore, Rahane’s international comeback seems unlikely.

Many expect him to quietly announce retirement, following the example of Pujara.

The Bigger picture

The possible retirement of Ishant, Bhuvneshwar, Shami, and Rahane highlights the ongoing generational shift in Indian cricket. Over the last two years, India has seen its stalwarts gradually step down. Shikhar Dhawan, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Pujara have all bid farewell to at least one format. Younger players are being groomed to take their place.

This transition is natural in cricket. However, it also signals the end of an era. During this era, these players carried India to historic victories across the globe. Their contributions—be it Ishant’s long spells, Bhuvneshwar’s swing, Shami’s consistency, or Rahane’s resilience—will always remain etched in cricketing history.

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