In a poignant announcement that resonated across the cricketing world, Shikhar Dhawan has officially declared his retirement from all forms of cricket. The prolific left-handed batsman shared this significant decision through his social media channels, marking the end of a glittering career that spanned over 13 years and saw him don the Indian jersey in 34 Tests, 167 One-Day Internationals (ODIs), and 68 T20 Internationals (T20Is).
Dhawan’s professional journey is a tapestry of memorable moments and record-breaking performances. With a total of 2315 runs in Tests, 6793 in ODIs, and 1579 in T20Is, Dhawan stands tall among the cricketing greats. In his heartfelt retirement video, Dhawan eloquently stated, “It’s important to turn the page to move forward in a story, and in life. That’s why I am announcing my retirement from international and domestic cricket. I’ve told myself to not feel sad that you won’t play for India again, but feel happy that you played for the country.”
At the age of 38, Dhawan has decided it was time to step away from the competitive scene. His last appearance for India was in an ODI match against Bangladesh in Chattogram in December 2022. His last T20I match dates further back to July 2021 against Sri Lanka, while his Test career concluded in 2018. More recently, Dhawan was seen leading the Punjab Kings in IPL 2024, but an untimely injury during a match against the Sunrisers Hyderabad in April drew curtains on his season and, eventually, his cricketing career.
In his statement, Dhawan extended his gratitude to his family, fans, childhood coaches, and the numerous Indian and IPL teams he has been associated with over the years. “I am forever grateful for the love and support I have received throughout my career,” he remarked.
The cricketing journey of Shikhar Dhawan is a tale of perseverance and excellence. He first came into the limelight during the 2004 U-19 World Cup, where he scored three centuries and accumulated a total of 505 runs. Alongside celebrated batsmen like Virender Sehwag and Gautam Gambhir, Dhawan formed a formidable Delhi batting lineup, renowned for his elegant cover drives and crisp offside shots.
Dhawan’s initiation into international cricket was a rocky one.
. He made his ODI debut against Australia in 2010 but was dismissed without scoring. However, fortune favored him in March 2013, when he made his Test debut against Australia in Mohali, scoring the fastest century by a debutant in just 85 balls. This remarkable performance was a prelude to his consistent contributions in 2013, where he formed an impeccable opening partnership with Rohit Sharma and played a vital role in India’s Champions Trophy triumph in England, scoring 363 runs, including two crucial centuries.
One of Dhawan’s most iconic performances came during the 2015 Cricket World Cup at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), where he scored a majestic 137 against South Africa. Dominating a fearsome bowling attack that included Morne Morkel, Dale Steyn, Wayne Parnell, and Vernon Philander, Dhawan cemented his reputation as a go-to player in ICC events. He continued this form into the 2019 World Cup, scoring a century against Australia before a hairline fracture on his thumb curtailed his participation in the tournament.
In the Indian Premier League (IPL), Dhawan’s prowess was equally evident. Over 222 games, he amassed 6,769 runs, playing a crucial role in the Sunrisers Hyderabad’s title-winning campaign in 2016, where he formed a lethal opening duo with David Warner. However, as the years progressed, his appearances in international fixtures became sporadic.
Leadership was another facet of Dhawan’s illustrious career. He captained the Indian team in 15 matches (12 ODIs and 3 T20Is) and led IPL franchises Punjab Kings and Sunrisers Hyderabad in 33 matches across the IPL and the erstwhile Champions League T20. As a captain for India, he achieved a respectable win-loss record of 8-5 (with 2 no-results), steering the team to ODI series victories against Sri Lanka in 2021 and West Indies and South Africa in 2022. However, his record as a captain in franchise cricket was less impressive, with 13 wins and 20 losses.
As Shikhar Dhawan turns the page to a new chapter of his life, his contributions to cricket will be remembered fondly by fans and fellow players alike. His journey from a promising youngster to a seasoned campaigner is a testament to his skill, grit, and unwavering love for the game. The cricketing fraternity bids him a fond farewell, celebrating a career that has left an indelible mark on the sport.