Shikhar Dhawan, one of India’s top white-ball openers, has officially retired from international and domestic cricket at 38. While stepping away from representing India, Dhawan hinted at continuing in league cricket, especially the IPL. He retires with an impressive record of 10,867 runs in 269 matches, including 24 centuries and 44 fifties.
Dhawan, who first gained attention in the 2004 U-19 World Cup, made his mark in international cricket with a record-breaking debut century in the 2013 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Reflecting on his decision, Dhawan expressed gratitude, saying, “It’s not a tough decision for me. I’ve spent most of my life playing cricket and feel I’ve reached a point where I want to rest now—from international and domestic cricket.”
His ODI career took off in the 2013 Champions Trophy, where he formed a formidable opening partnership with Rohit Sharma, leading India to victory. Dhawan became India’s go-to player in ICC tournaments, with standout performances in the 2015 World Cup and 2017 Champions Trophy.
Though younger players like Shubman Gill and Ishan Kishan eventually replaced him in the Indian squad, Dhawan’s contributions to Indian cricket remain significant. He played 269 international matches, scoring 10,867 runs, and was a mainstay at the top of the order throughout the 2010s.
Career Highlights:
The Mohali Debut:
Dhawan’s 187 against Australia in the 2013 Border-Gavaskar Trophy is the highest score by an Indian Test debutant, marking his rise in international cricket.
2013 Champions Trophy:
Dhawan’s consistent performances, including two centuries, were key to India’s victory, establishing him as a crucial player in ICC tournaments.
As Dhawan steps away from the international stage, his aggressive batting and role as a dependable opener will be fondly remembered.