Shikhar Dhawan Announces Retirement
Shikhar Dhawan, recognized as one amongst the finest and most attractive initial batsman in India, has disclosed his withdrawal from both international and domestic cricket. The left-handed batter popularly referred to as “Gabbar” due to his dynamic attitude while playing the game, has communicated that he will no longer play the ball after more than a decade long career. The retirement of Dhawan is an end of time in India’s cricketing history because it leaves behind a heritage filled with extraordinary performances and unforgettable experiences.
As I close this chapter of my cricketing journey, I carry with me countless memories and gratitude. Thank you for the love and support! Jai Hind! 🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/QKxRH55Lgx
— Shikhar Dhawan (@SDhawan25) August 24, 2024
A life capped with glory
Shikhar Dhawan was in his ODI international debut for India against Australia during October 2010. Nevertheless, it was during ICC Champions Trophy 2013 when he expressed himself globally. He was the leading run-scorer at this tournament where India emerged victorious partly due to his contribution. His style which combines aggression and elegance was appealing to many cricket fans who adored him.
In limited overs cricket, over time, Dhawan grew to be an eminent member of India’s top order batting line-up. He had been recognised for having reliable starts as well as anchoring innings thereby supporting middle order players’ efforts towards scoring runs easily within time frame’s constraints. This duo formed one of the most prosperous opening partnerships ever recorded in One Day International (ODI) history alongside fellow opener Rohit Sharma; thus their partnership became legendary.
Shikhar Dhawan Career Stats
Test Matches: 34
Runs: 2,315
Average: 40.61
Centuries: 7
Half-centuries: 5
Highest Score: 190
One Day Internationals (ODIs): 167
Runs: 6,793
Average: 44.11
Centuries: 17
Half-centuries: 39
Highest Score: 143
Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is): 68
Runs: 1,759
Average: 27.92
Strike Rate: 126.36
Half-centuries: 11
Highest Score: 92*
Indian Premier League (IPL): 206 matches
Runs: 6,244
Average: 35.07
Centuries: 2
Half-centuries: 47
Highest Score: 106*
Particularly, there’s something special about Dhawan’s reliability in ODIs. His total of 17 hundreds as well as 39 fifties proves that he is capable of performing at the highest levels. He was also India’s top run-getter during the 2015 and 2019 ICC Cricket World Cups which further showcased his knack for making a mark during big tournaments.
Memorable Moments
From his record-breaking first test against Australia back in 2013 where he marked himself out by having the quickest ever century on debut (in just 85 balls) to memorable performances across ICC tournaments – Dhawan has always had those moments scattered throughout his career. His double hundreds within championship trophies played by ICC gained him golden bat award thus identifying him as one among leading thirty greatest cricketing openers worldwide.
Moreover, he was also the Player of the Tournament in the 2018 Asia Cup due to his outstanding batting contributions. He has been an important member of the Indian team because he always delivers during tough times especially in ICC tournaments.
Retirement Announcement
Thanking his fans, teammates, coaches and family for their constant support throughout his career, Dhawan made a retirement announcement. He said that this was the time for him to step aside so as to pave way for younger players. In addition, Dhawan noted that while he is retiring from competitive cricket; he will still be involved with different segments of the game such as making coaches and mentors.
One major event in Indian cricket history is Dhawan’s retirement; it symbolizes how a time which was once characterized by flamboyance, gracefulness and steely determination has come to an end. As fans and fellow cricketers reminisce about his elaborate career, Shikhar Dhawan’s legacy as one of the greatest openers in India will continue to live on for years.
Shikhar Dhawan Message for his Son
“Zoravar is 11 now. I hope he gets to know about my retirement and all about my cricket journey,” Dhawan told The Hindustan Times. He further added, “But more than as a cricketer, I would like for Zoravar to remember me as a good human being.”
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