Former Indian cricketer Shikhar Dhawan recently announced his retirement from international and domestic cricket, prompting heartfelt messages from former teammates and fans. One of those messages came from Virat Kohli, who praised Dhawan for his fearless debut and his years of being a dependable opener for the team. Kohli highlighted Dhawan’s passion for the game, sportsmanship, and trademark smile that will be missed by all. He also thanked Dhawan for the unforgettable memories and performances he has given to Indian cricket.
Dhawan, who made his debut in 2013 and played his last match in December 2022, was known for his prowess in the 50-overs format, where he excelled as an opener. In a video shared on social media, Dhawan expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to play for India and announced his retirement as a way to move forward in life. With 24 international hundreds and standout performances in multi-team tournaments, Dhawan leaves behind a remarkable legacy in Indian cricket, including the fastest hundred by a debutant in a test match against Australia.
In addition to his contributions on the field, Dhawan also took on the role of captain for India in limited-overs series when regular skippers were rested. Former Indian cricket team head coach Ravi Shastri also acknowledged Dhawan’s achievements and impact on the sport, praising him for his match-winning innings in various tournaments and series. Shastri encouraged Dhawan to continue contributing to cricket in other ways and wished him well in his future endeavors.
Dhawan’s success was not limited to international cricket, as he also found great success in the Indian Premier League (IPL), becoming the second-highest run-getter of all time in the tournament. With 6,769 runs in 222 matches and an average of 35.25, Dhawan’s performances in the IPL cemented his reputation as a skilled batsman. Fans and fellow cricketers alike celebrated Dhawan’s career and the impact he has had on Indian cricket, remembering his memorable innings and match-winning performances over the years.
As Dhawan embarks on a new chapter in his life post-retirement, he leaves behind a legacy that will be remembered by cricket enthusiasts for years to come. His fearless approach to the game, sportsmanship, and ability to deliver in high-pressure situations have made him a beloved figure in Indian cricket. With messages of gratitude and appreciation pouring in from all corners, Dhawan’s retirement marks the end of an era in Indian cricket, but also opens up new opportunities for him to make a lasting impact in the sport in different capacities.
