Cheteshwar Pujara retires from cricket: How much pension will he get from BCCI each month?

Former Indian Test cricket stalwart Cheteshwar Pujara concluded his international career on Monday after representing India in 103 Test matches and 5 ODIs, accumulating 7,195 Test runs at an average of 43.60 with 19 centuries and 35 half-centuries to his name.

Pujara's Test journey began in 2010, and he established himself as India's reliable number 3 batter after Rahul Dravid's retirement in 2012. Throughout his career, he maintained a strong presence in the Test format, becoming a crucial component of India's batting lineup.



His limited-overs career remained brief, featuring in just five ODI matches. He played two ODIs against Zimbabwe in 2013 and three against Bangladesh in 2014, managing to score only 51 runs across these appearances. Despite being selected for the home series against England, he remained on the bench and never made it to India's T20I squad.

In the Indian Premier League (IPL), Pujara's involvement spanned across four franchises. He made his IPL debut with Kolkata Knight Riders in 2010, followed by stints with Royal Challengers Bengaluru from 2011 to 2013 and Punjab Kings in 2014. His last IPL association was with Chennai Super Kings during their title-winning 2021 season, though he didn't get to play any matches.

How much pension will Cheteshwar Pujara receive?

Following his retirement, Pujara will receive a monthly pension of Rs 70,000 from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), placing him in the highest pension bracket for former players.

The BCCI's pension scheme for former players and umpires saw an increase in 2022, reflecting the board's commitment to supporting cricket veterans. Regarding this initiative, former BCCI president Sourav Ganguly stated: "It is extremely important that the financial well-being of our former cricketers is taken care of. The players remain the lifeline and as a Board, it is our duty to be by their side once their playing days are over. The umpires have been unsung heroes and the BCCI truly values their contribution."

While Pujara has retired from international cricket for India, his cricket journey may continue in different forms. He has already ventured into cricket commentary during his time away from the national team.

BCCI pension amounts (as of 2022)

Former First-Class Players

Previous Amount: Rs 15,000 per month
Revised Amount: Rs 30,000 per month

Former Test Players (Lower Tier)

Previous Amount: Rs 37,500 per month
Revised Amount: Rs 60,000 per month

Former Test Players (Upper Tier)

Previous Amount: Rs 50,000 per month
Revised Amount: Rs 70,000 per month

Women's Players

Former Women International Players

Previous Amount: Rs 30,000 per month
Revised Amount: Rs 52,500 per month

Women First-Class Players (Retired Before 2003)

Previous Amount: Rs. 22,500 per month
Revised Amount: Rs. 45,000 per month

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