Shikhar Dhawan bows out: Gabbar of Indian cricket says goodbye
Former India opener Shikhar Dhawan, one of the most prolific cricketers of his generation, announced his retirement from all forms of cricket on Saturday. The decision marks the end of an illustrious career that saw Dhawan become a key figure in India's cricketing success over the past decade.
In a heartfelt video message shared on social media, Shikhar Dhawan expressed his contentment with the decision. "It's important to turn the page to move forward in life, and that's why I am announcing my retirement from international and domestic cricket," he said. "I am leaving with peace in my heart that I played for so long for India. I tell myself not to feel sad that you will not play for India anymore, but to feel happy that you played for your country."
Dhawan made his debut for India in 2010 in one day international against Australia, where he had a disappointing start with a second-ball duck.
However, Shikhar Dhawan quickly established himself as a mainstay in the Indian lineup, particularly in ODIs, where he formed a formidable opening partnership with Rohit Sharma. The duo's synergy at the top of the order was instrumental in India's success in several ICC tournaments, including the Champions Trophy 2013, where Dhawan emerged as the tournament's leading run-scorer.
Reflecting on his career, Dhawan shared that the decision to retire, while not difficult, was deeply emotional. "Not tough, but it is emotional, yes — but not in the sense of me being sad about it. I feel the emotion of gratitude and love. I have given half of my waking life to cricket, and it's time now to retire, or rather, give ‘vishraam' to it. I'm totally enjoying relaxing and spending time at home," Hindustan Times quoted Dhawan as saying.
Dhawan's ODI career was particularly stellar, with 6793 runs in 167 matches at an average of 44.11 and a strike rate of 91.35. He scored 17 centuries and 39 fifties in the format.
His exploits in Tests and T20Is were also notable, with 2315 runs in 34 Tests and 1759 runs in 68 T20Is. His debut century in Test cricket, an 85-ball 100 against Australia in Mohali in 2013, remains the fastest by a debutant in the format.
Despite his retirement, Dhawan is confident that his fame will endure beyond his playing days. "Why will I lose fame if I give up cricket? Who knows, the fame might increase also. Main logon ke dilon mein basa hua hoon. Not only through cricket…sometimes even through my Instagram reels," he siad.
Dhawan's final competitive game was in April 2024, where he led Punjab Kings in the IPL. He leaves behind a legacy as the second-highest run-getter in IPL history, with 6769 runs across 222 matches.
A product of the famed Sonnet Club in West Delhi, Dhawan's early years saw him contribute significantly to Delhi's Ranji Trophy success in 2007-08.
