Shikhar Dhawan, the prolific left-handed batsman, has announced his retirement from all forms of international and domestic cricket. Therefore The decision marks the end of a remarkable 14-year career during which he became one of India’s most dependable openers across formats. Dhawan made this announcement via a heartfelt video on social media, reflecting on his journey and expressing gratitude for the opportunities to represent his country.
Career Highlights
- International Career: Moreover Spanning 14 years, Dhawan played 269 matches for India across formats, scoring 24 centuries (17 in ODIs and 7 in Tests).
- ODI Success: Dhawan is one of the few batsmen in ODI history to score over 5000 runs with an average above 40 and a strike rate exceeding 90. He last represented India in an ODI series against Bangladesh in December 2022.
- Test Debut: Dhawan’s explosive 85-ball century against Australia in 2013, the fastest by a Test debutant, remains one of his most memorable performances.
- Partnerships: Formed a legendary opening partnership with Rohit Sharma, the duo becoming India’s second-most successful opening pair in ODIs after Sachin Tendulkar and Sourav Ganguly.
- Injuries and Comebacks: Faced significant setbacks, including a thumb injury during the 2019 World Cup, but consistently made strong comebacks.
- IPL Contributions: Represented several franchises, including Delhi Capitals and Sunrisers Hyderabad, becoming the second-highest run-scorer in IPL history.
- Domestic and Youth Success: Part of Delhi’s Ranji Trophy-winning team in 2007-08 and the top scorer for India at the Under-19 World Cup in 2004.
Key Moments
- Retirement Announcement: Meanwhile Announced his retirement from international and domestic cricket on social media, citing the need to “turn the page” and move forward.
- ODI Great: One of eight players in ODI history to score over 5000 runs with a 40-plus average and 90-plus strike rate.
- Test Debut Record: Moreover Scored the fastest century on Test debut (85 balls) against Australia in 2013.
- Successful Opening Pair: With Rohit Sharma, formed the fourth-most successful opening pair in ODI history and the second-best for India.
- Consistency in Multi-Team Tournaments: Top scorer for India in several multi-team tournaments, including Champions Trophy 2013, World Cup 2015, and Asia Cup 2018.
- IPL Legacy: Currently the second-highest run-scorer in IPL history with 6769 runs at a strike rate of 127.14.
- Leadership Roles: Captained India’s second-string side and led various IPL teams, most recently Punjab Kings.
Table of Dhawan’s Career Achievements
| Category | Achievement |
|---|---|
| International Matches | 269 matches across formats |
| ODI Centuries | 17 centuries |
| Test Centuries | 7 centuries |
| ODI Average | Over 5000 runs with a 40+ average and 90+ strike rate |
| Test Debut Record | Fastest century on debut (85 balls) vs. Australia |
| Notable Partnerships | 4th most successful ODI opening pair with Rohit Sharma |
| Top Scorer in Tournaments | Champions Trophy 2013, World Cup 2015, Asia Cup 2018 |
| IPL Contributions | Second-highest run-scorer in IPL history with 6769 runs |
| Domestic Success | Part of Delhi’s Ranji Trophy-winning team (2007-08) and top scorer in Under-19 World Cup (2004) |
Shikhar Dhawan’s retirement marks the end of an era for Indian cricket. His aggressive batting style, particularly in ODIs, his ability to form strong partnerships, and his leadership both on and off the field have left a lasting impact. As Dhawan steps away from the game, he leaves behind a legacy of determination, resilience, and excellence. His contributions to Indian cricket will be remembered for years to come, and his presence on the field will be greatly missed by fans worldwide.