Gabbar' of Indian Cricket
Shikhar Dhawan, a name synonymous with elegance and aggression on the cricket field, announced his retirement from international and domestic cricket on August 24, 2024. With this announcement, Dhawan marked the end of an illustrious career that saw him rise from the streets of Delhi to become one of India's most cherished cricketers. Known for his trademark mustache twirls, broad smile, and fearless batting style, Dhawan's journey is nothing short of inspirational.
Born in Delhi, Dhawan's cricketing dream took root in a city that has produced many cricketing legends. However, his path was not as smooth as some of his contemporaries. While players like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma quickly became household names, Dhawan had to fight his way into the Indian team. But when his moment came, he grabbed it with both hands, leaving an indelible mark on the cricketing world.
His Test debut in 2013 against Australia was nothing short of sensational. Dhawan shattered records by scoring the fastest century on Test debut, an innings that transformed him into an overnight sensation. From there, he went on to become the 'Gabbar' of international cricket, a nickname that reflected his commanding presence on the field and his ability to take on the fiercest bowlers with ease.
Shikhar Dhawan’s Monumental Records
Dhawan's career is a treasure trove of unforgettable moments, each a testament to his skill, determination, and love for the game. His statistics speak volumes about his contribution to Indian cricket. In 167 ODIs, Dhawan scored 6793 runs at an average of 44.11, with a strike rate of 91.35, including seven hundred and five fifties. In T20Is, he accumulated 1759 runs in 68 matches, and in Test cricket, he scored 2315 runs in 34 games at an average of 40.61.
But beyond the numbers, Dhawan could rise to the occasion in big tournaments making him a standout player. He was fondly called 'Mr. ICC' for his stellar performances in ICC tournaments. He won the golden bat for being the highest run-scorer in back-to-back editions of the Champions Trophy in 2013 and 2017. In the 2015 World Cup, he was India's highest run-scorer, once again proving his mettle on the world stage.
Memorable Innings that Defined Shikhar Dhawan
As Dhawan steps away from the international arena, it is worth revisiting some of his most iconic innings, the ones that defined his legacy and made him a beloved figure in Indian cricket.
► 187 vs Australia, Mohali 2013
Dhawan's Test debut was a spectacle. Replacing Virender Sehwag in the lineup, Dhawan played an innings that would be remembered for generations. Scoring the fastest century on Test debut, he smashed 187 runs off just 174 balls, leaving the Australian bowlers in tatters. His cover drives were like poetry in motion, and his aggression was unmatched. This innings not only cemented his place in the Test team but also set the tone for the rest of his career.
► 114 vs South Africa, Cardiff 2013
In the opening match of the 2013 Champions Trophy, Dhawan announced his arrival in the ODI format with a scintillating century against South Africa. This match also marked the beginning of his partnership with Rohit Sharma, a duo that would go on to become one of the most feared opening pairs in world cricket. Dhawan's century was the foundation of India's victory in that match and the tournament as a whole.
► 137 vs South Africa, Melbourne 2015
Dhawan's love affair with ICC tournaments continued in the 2015 World Cup. His 137 against South Africa at the Melbourne Cricket Ground was a masterclass in batting. Facing one of the best bowling attacks in the world, Dhawan was at his aggressive best, dispatching bowlers like Dale Steyn and Morne Morkel with ease. His century set up a massive win for India and reinforced his reputation as a big-match player.
► 190 vs Sri Lanka, Galle 2017
In the first Test against Sri Lanka in 2017, Dhawan played one of his most memorable innings. Scoring 190 off 168 balls, he decimated the Sri Lankan bowling attack on the first day of the match. His partnership with Cheteshwar Pujara was a joy to watch, as Dhawan combined his aggressive stroke play with Pujara's solid technique to put India in a commanding position. This innings was a reminder of Dhawan's ability to dominate in Test cricket as well.
► 117 vs Australia, Oval 2019
Perhaps one of the most heroic innings in the folklore of Indian cricket, Dhawan's 117 against Australia in the 2019 World Cup was played with a fractured thumb. Battling through pain, Dhawan produced an innings of immense courage and skill. His determination to play through the injury and score a century in a crucial match against a top team like Australia is a testament to his character and commitment to the Indian team.
A Farewell with Gratitude and Grace
In his retirement announcement, Dhawan expressed deep gratitude to everyone who supported him throughout his career. He acknowledged the role of his family, coaches, and teammates in helping him achieve his dream of playing for India. His heartfelt message resonated with fans who have admired his journey from a young boy in Delhi to one of India's most successful cricketers.
“I always had one goal in mind, that was to play for India, and I achieved it thanks to a lot of people. As it’s said to move ahead in the story, you need to flip over the pages. Hence, I’m also doing that; I’m announcing my retirement from international and domestic cricket,” Dhawan said in his video message.
He went on to add, “And now when I’m bidding adieu to my cricketing journey, I have the satisfaction that I played a lot for my country. I just say this to myself: don’t be sad that you won’t play for your country again but always be happy that you played for your country. And it’s the biggest achievement for me that I played.”
The Legacy of Shikhar Dhawan
As Shikhar Dhawan steps away from the game, his legacy will continue to inspire generations of cricketers. His journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, the importance of seizing opportunities, and the value of playing with passion. Dhawan leaves behind a rich legacy, not just in terms of records and statistics, but in the countless memories he has given to cricket fans around the world.
While his absence will be felt on the field, Dhawan's influence on Indian cricket will endure. He may no longer don the Indian jersey, but his contributions to the game will be remembered forever. As he embarks on a new chapter in his life, Shikhar Dhawan can look back on his career with pride, knowing that he gave his all to the game he loves.
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