Indian cricketing legend Shikhar Dhawan has officially announced his retirement from both international and domestic cricket, bringing an end to a storied career that has left an indelible mark on the sport. Dhawan made the announcement via a heartfelt social media post on Saturday morning, marking the conclusion of his illustrious journey that began with his debut in 2010.

Dhawan’s last appearance in a competitive match was in April 2024, where he led Punjab Kings in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Over the course of his career, Dhawan amassed an impressive 24 centuries across 269 international matches, including 17 in One Day Internationals (ODIs) and seven in Test cricket.

In a video message accompanying his announcement, Dhawan reflected on his career with gratitude. “It’s important to turn the page to move forward in life and that’s why I am announcing my retirement from international and domestic cricket,” Dhawan said. “I am leaving with peace in my heart that I played for so long for India. I tell myself not to feel sad that you will not play for India anymore, but to feel happy that you played for your country.”

Having made his debut for India in 2010, Dhawan’s ODI career is particularly noteworthy. He retires as one of only eight ODI batters in history with over 5000 runs at a 40-plus average and a 90-plus strike rate, joining an elite group that includes fellow Indian stars Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. In total, Dhawan scored 6793 runs in 167 ODIs at an average of 44.11, with a strike rate of 91.35. His last ODI appearance was against Bangladesh in Chattogram in December 2022.

Dhawan also made significant contributions in Test cricket, where he scored 2315 runs in 34 matches at an average of 40.61. His explosive debut century against Australia in Mohali in 2013, where he scored 187 runs in an 85-ball innings, remains one of the most memorable moments of his career. In T20 Internationals, Dhawan accumulated 1759 runs at a strike rate of 126.36 across 68 matches.

The pinnacle of Dhawan’s career came in 2013, a year that saw him score 1162 runs in 26 ODIs at an average of 50.52 and a strike rate of 97.89. His outstanding performances in the 2013 ICC Champions Trophy, where he scored 363 runs in five innings, were instrumental in India securing the title. This tournament also marked the beginning of Dhawan’s successful opening partnership with Rohit Sharma, a combination that would go on to become one of the most prolific in ODI history.

Despite facing challenges, including a thumb injury during the 2019 World Cup, Dhawan’s contributions to Indian cricket were recognized with leadership roles, as he captained India’s second-string sides during the final phase of his international career.

In the IPL, Dhawan’s consistency as a top-order batsman was evident as he scored 6769 runs in 222 matches, making him the second-highest run-getter in the tournament’s history, only behind Virat Kohli. Dhawan represented several franchises, including Delhi Capitals, Mumbai Indians, Deccan Chargers, Sunrisers Hyderabad, and Punjab Kings.

Dhawan’s retirement marks the end of an era in Indian cricket, but his legacy as a fearless opener and a true sportsman will continue to inspire future generations.

Image: Getty Images