Shikhar Dhawan Retirement: A Glorious Cricketing Career Comes to an End
On August 24, 2024, Shikhar Dhawan, one of India’s most celebrated cricketers, announced his retirement from international and domestic cricket. The announcement marked the end of an illustrious career that spanned over 13 years, during which Dhawan became a household name in Indian cricket.
In his retirement video, Dhawan shared,
“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.”
Image taken from https://www.instagram.com/shikhardofficial/
A Look Back at Shikhar Dhawan’s Stellar Career
Dhawan made his international debut in the ODI format against Australia in 2010. Although his debut wasn’t ideal, as he was dismissed for a duck, Dhawan’s resilience and talent quickly shone through. In March 2013, he was handed his Test debut against Australia at Mohali, where he made history by smashing the fastest century on debut, achieving the milestone in just 85 deliveries.
Dhawan’s career stats are a testament to his consistency and impact on the game. He played 34 Tests, 167 ODIs, and 68 T20Is for India, amassing 2,315, 6,793, and 1,579 runs respectively across the three formats. His contributions in ICC events were particularly noteworthy, earning him the reputation of being a ‘big-match’ player. Notably, his 137 against South Africa at the MCG during the 2015 Cricket World Cup remains one of his most memorable innings.
His partnership with Rohit Sharma was instrumental in India’s success in the 2013 ICC Champions Trophy, where Dhawan scored 363 runs, including two centuries, leading India to victory in England.
The Final Chapter: Dhawan’s Last Days on the Field
Dhawan played his last international match for India in December 2022, an ODI against Bangladesh at Chattogram. His last T20I appearance came in July 2021 in Sri Lanka, while his final Test match was in 2018. Injuries played a role in Dhawan’s absence from international cricket in his later years, with his last competitive appearance being for the Punjab Kings in IPL 2024, before an injury prematurely ended his season.
Despite the challenges, Dhawan’s contributions to Indian cricket remain unparalleled. His graceful cover drives, powerful cuts, and ability to perform on the big stage have left an indelible mark on the sport.
Shikhar Dhawan’s Net Worth and IPL Success
Beyond international cricket, Dhawan was a force to reckon with in the Indian Premier League (IPL). In his 222-game IPL career, he scored 6,769 runs and was a key player in Sunrisers Hyderabad’s 2016 championship win. His partnership with David Warner during that season was pivotal to the team’s success.
As of December 2023, Dhawan’s net worth was estimated to be around ₹125 crore, a testament to his success both on and off the field.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Shikhar Dhawan famous for?
Shikhar Dhawan is renowned for his explosive batting style, particularly his performances in ICC tournaments and his elegant offside play. He is also known for his memorable debut century in Test cricket and his successful partnership with Rohit Sharma.
How many sixes did Shikhar Dhawan hit in his ODI career?
In his ODI career, Shikhar Dhawan hit 841 fours and 79 sixes, showcasing his ability to find the boundary with ease.
How did Shikhar Dhawan perform in the IPL?
Dhawan was a consistent performer in the IPL, scoring 6,769 runs across 222 matches. He was part of the Sunrisers Hyderabad team that won the IPL title in 2016.
What was Shikhar Dhawan’s most memorable innings?
Among many, Dhawan’s 137 against South Africa in the 2015 Cricket World Cup is often cited as one of his most memorable innings, where he dominated a world-class bowling attack at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).
Conclusion
Shikhar Dhawan’s retirement marks the end of an era for Indian cricket. His journey from a young prodigy in the 2004 U-19 World Cup to becoming one of India’s most reliable openers is a story of grit, determination, and unmatched talent. As Dhawan turns the page on his cricketing career, he leaves behind a legacy that will inspire future generations of cricketers.
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