Retirement announcement: Shikhar Dhawan, the veteran Indian opener, has officially announced his retirement from all forms of cricket via a social media video.
After dedicating 14 years to the nation, Shikhar Dhawan announced his retirement from international and domestic cricket in a social media post on Saturday morning. He retires as one of just eight ODI batsmen to have surpassed 5,000 runs. Moreover, he boasts an average over 40 and a strike rate exceeding 90.
Shikhar Dhawanโs Retirement Message Shared on Social Media:
In a video, he stated, “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 also added “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.“
Mr. ICC: Key Career Highlights and Achievements:
Dhawan made his debut for India in 2010 during a match against Australia in Visakhapatnam, in which he was dismissed for a duck after facing only two balls. Although his career began on a challenging note, he made an impactful comeback playing against Australia at Mohali. Dhawan played a spectacular counter-attacking innings, scoring 187 runs off just 174 balls.
His outstanding performance not only highlighted his exceptional skill but also marked a significant arrival on the international stage. His remarkable innings was notable because it was against the same Australian team where he had been out for zero on debut. This made his comeback even more significant.
After his debut century against Australia in Mohali, Shikhar Dhawan scored his second century in Auckland against New Zealand. This innings is distinguished as his only Test century scored outside Asia. It was especially significant because of the tough batting conditions in New Zealand.
In Test cricket, Shikhar Dhawan has accumulated 2,315 runs across his career. He has scored 7 centuries and maintains an average of 40.61.
After Virender Sehwag, Dhawan and Rohit Sharma became India’s top opening pair in limited-overs cricket. They established one of the most formidable partnerships in world cricket.
GABBAR’s ODI Tournaments:
Shikhar Dhawan has delivered numerous memorable performances in his ODI career. Over 167 matches, he has accumulated 6,793 runs at an impressive average of 44.11. He has hit a total of 17 century in his ODI career
In 2013, he’s career soared to new heights. He scored 1,162 runs in 26 ODIs, averaging 50.52 with a strike rate of 97.89. A standout moment was his 363 runs in five innings during the Champions Trophy, including two centuries, which played a crucial role in India’s title win. This was his first major series after a challenging period in 2010 and 2011.
He’s maiden ODI century was scored during the 2013 Champions Trophy in Cardiff. He dominated the South African bowlers, hitting 114 runs off 94 balls.
In the IPL, Dhawan has represented Delhi Capitals, Mumbai Indians, Deccan Chargers, Sunrisers Hyderabad, and Punjab Kings. He ranks as the second-highest run-scorer in the league, with 6,769 runs from 222 matches and a strike rate of 127.14.
In the 2020 IPL season, Shikhar Dhawan notched up two centuries in back-to-back games. The first came against Chennai Super Kings at Sharjah, where Dhawan dominated the bowlers from the start. His second century was scored at the same venue against Kings XI Punjab.
Shikhar Dhawan’s cricketing journey stands out for its remarkable achievements and resilience. From his debut century against Australia to his standout seasons in the IPL, Dhawan has proven himself as one of the gameโs top openers. His consistent run-scoring ability, including his notable centuries and record-setting innings, highlights his skill and adaptability.
As Dhawan concludes his playing career, he leaves behind a legacy of remarkable achievements and memorable moments that will continue to inspire future cricketers. His contributions to both international and domestic cricket have cemented his status as a prominent figure in the sport.
