Shikhar Dhawan, the dynamic Indian cricketer known for his aggressive batting and infectious zeal, has announced his retirement from international and domestic cricket, effective immediately. The left-handed batsman, who has been an indispensable part of Indian cricket for over 13 years, revealed his decision through a heartfelt message on social media. Throughout his illustrious career, Dhawan played 34 Tests, 167 ODIs, and 68 T20Is, amassing 2315, 6793, and 1579 runs respectively in these formats.
In his emotional retirement video, Dhawan gracefully 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 played his final game for India in an ODI against Bangladesh at Chattogram in December 2022, and his last T20I was against Sri Lanka in July 2021. He had not donned the whites for India since 2018. His last competitive appearance came for the Punjab Kings in IPL 2024 against the Sunrisers Hyderabad, where an injury cut his season short.
Acknowledging all those who supported him throughout his journey, Dhawan expressed his gratitude towards his family, fans, childhood coaches, and the myriad of Indian and IPL teams he represented. His journey in cricket began with éclat at the 2004 U-19 World Cup, where he scored three centuries and accumulated a total of 505 runs. Alongside stalwarts like Virender Sehwag and Gautam Gambhir, he enriched the formidable Delhi batting line-up.
Dhawan’s flair and finesse became evident with his impeccable cover drives and cuts that made bowlers wary. Though his ODI debut in 2010 against Australia saw him dismissed for a duck, he truly arrived on the international stage during his Test debut against Australia at Mohali in March 2013. He marked the occasion by smashing the fastest century on Test debut, reaching the milestone in just 85 deliveries.
Post his historic Test debut, Dhawan formed a vital opening partnership with Rohit Sharma.
. His contributions were pivotal as India clinched the Champions Trophy in England in 2013, with Dhawan scoring 363 runs, including two centuries. His unbeaten 137 against South Africa at the MCG during the 2015 Cricket World Cup remains etched in the memories of cricket fans. Taking on the might of bowlers like Morne Morkel, Dale Steyn, Wayne Parnell, and Vernon Philander, Dhawan’s innings was a masterclass in aggressive batting.
Dubbed as the man for ICC events, Dhawan continued his sublime form into the ICC 2019 World Cup, starting with a hundred against Australia. Unfortunately, a hairline fracture on his thumb curtailed his campaign, leaving fans and the team in dismay.
In the Indian Premier League (IPL), Dhawan’s prowess was just as significant. Across 222 matches, he scored 6769 runs and won the title with the Sunrisers Hyderabad in 2016, forming a formidable partnership with David Warner. However, as the decade turned, his appearances in international matches became sporadic.
Captaincy was another feather in Dhawan’s cap. He led India in 15 matches (12 ODIs and 3 T20Is) and captained IPL teams – Punjab Kings and Sunrisers Hyderabad – as well as during the Champions League T20. His record as India’s captain stands at 8 wins, 5 losses, and 2 no-results. Under his leadership, India secured ODI series victories against Sri Lanka in 2021, and West Indies and South Africa in 2022. However, his stint as a franchise captain was less successful, with a record of 13 wins against 20 defeats.
Shikhar Dhawan’s retirement marks the end of a remarkable chapter in Indian cricket. His aggressive approach, coupled with his innate ability to perform in high-pressure situations, made him a favorite among fans and an asset to his teams. As he moves on to the next phase of his life, the cricketing world will remember his contributions and celebrate a career filled with memorable performances and unwavering passion.