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Indian cricket star Shikhar Dhawan, widely recognized for his dynamic batting and leadership qualities, announced his retirement from international and domestic cricket on August 24, 2024. The 38-year-old cricketer shared this emotional news through a heartfelt video posted on his social media channels, reflecting on his illustrious career and expressing gratitude to those who supported him along the way.
A Stellar Career
Shikhar Dhawan’s cricketing journey is nothing short of remarkable. He made his international debut in 2010 during an ODI against Australia. Despite a rocky start, Dhawan soon established himself as a cornerstone of the Indian batting lineup, especially in limited-overs cricket. His aggressive batting style and consistency earned him the nickname “Mr. ICC,” thanks to his exceptional performances in International Cricket Council (ICC) tournaments.
Dhawan was a key player in India’s 2013 and 2017 ICC Champions Trophy campaigns, where he was the highest run-scorer in both tournaments. His exploits in the 2015 Cricket World Cup further solidified his reputation as a big-match player. Over the course of his career, Dhawan played 34 Tests, 167 ODIs, and 68 T20Is, amassing over 10,000 runs across formats. His ODI career, in particular, was exemplary, with 6,793 runs at an average of 44.11, including 17 centuries.
Key Achievements
One of Dhawan’s most memorable performances came during his Test debut against Australia in 2013, where he scored the fastest century on debut, reaching 100 runs in just 85 balls. This knock not only announced his arrival on the Test scene but also showcased his ability to dominate even the best bowling attacks.
In ODI cricket, Dhawan was a pillar for India at the top of the order. His left-handed elegance combined with his ability to accelerate made him one of the most feared openers in world cricket. He was a vital part of India’s successes in various ICC tournaments and often delivered when the stakes were highest. Dhawan’s consistency in ICC tournaments, including the Champions Trophy and World Cup, made him a fan favorite and earned him the title “Mr. ICC.”
The Decision to Retire
Dhawan last played for India in December 2022 during an ODI series against Bangladesh. Since then, with the emergence of younger talents like Shubman Gill, Dhawan found himself out of the national team setup. Despite his absence from the international arena, he continued to lead the Punjab Kings in the Indian Premier League (IPL) until 2024. However, with time, Dhawan felt it was the right moment to turn the page and retire from all forms of domestic and international cricket.
In his farewell message, Dhawan thanked his family, coaches, teammates, and fans for their unwavering support throughout his career. He expressed contentment with his journey, stating that he leaves the sport with “peace in his heart,” having fulfilled his dream of playing for India.
Legacy
Shikhar Dhawan’s retirement marks the end of an era for Indian cricket. His contributions on the field, especially in ICC tournaments, will be remembered for years to come. As he steps away from international and domestic cricket, Dhawan leaves behind a legacy of resilience, sportsmanship, and unparalleled achievements. His fans will continue to celebrate his career and the joy he brought to Indian cricket(
