The Impressive TimesNew Delhi : Cricketer Shikhar Dhawan has officially announced his retirement from all three formats of international cricket through an emotional video shared on his social media accounts. In the video, Dhawan expressed his gratitude to his fans, teammates, coaches, and family for their unwavering support throughout his illustrious career.
Reflecting on his journey, Dhawan mentioned that he is retiring with “countless memories and an abundance of love” for the game that has been an integral part of his life.
Known for his aggressive batting style and charismatic personality, Dhawan, fondly nicknamed “Gabbar,” has been a significant figure in Indian cricket. He last represented India in an ODI series against Bangladesh in December 2022. Since then, fans have been eagerly waiting to see him back on the field. However, after much contemplation, Dhawan decided to hang up his boots, closing a remarkable chapter in Indian cricket.
Dhawan made his international debut in October 2010 in a One Day International (ODI) against Australia, but it wasn’t until the 2013 ICC Champions Trophy that he truly announced his arrival on the global stage. His consistent performances as an opening batsman earned him a spot in the Test and T20 International (T20I) squads. Over his career, Dhawan played 34 Test matches, scoring 2,315 runs at an average of 40.61, including seven centuries and five half-centuries. In ODIs, he featured in 167 matches, amassing 6,857 runs at an average of 44.97, with 17 centuries and 39 fifties to his name. In the shortest format, Dhawan represented India in 68 T20Is, scoring 1,759 runs with 11 half-centuries.
Dhawan’s aggressive approach at the top of the order made him a vital cog in India’s batting line-up, particularly in limited-overs cricket. His ability to score runs quickly, often laying a strong foundation for the middle order, was instrumental in many of India’s victories. His performances in ICC tournaments were especially noteworthy, including being the highest run-scorer in the 2013 Champions Trophy and playing a crucial role in India’s campaign in the 2015 ICC Cricket World Cup.
Off the field, Dhawan has been known for his distinctive mustache twirling celebration and his jovial demeanor, endearing him to fans and making him a popular figure in the cricketing community. As Dhawan moves on to the next phase of his life, he leaves behind a legacy of resilience, passion, and sportsmanship. Fans across the world will remember him not just for his on-field heroics but also for his contribution to the spirit of cricket. With his retirement, Indian cricket bids farewell to one of its most entertaining and prolific openers.
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