Image Source : Getty
Shikhar Dhawan, one of India’s most celebrated openers, recently announced his retirement from international and domestic cricket, closing the chapter on a remarkable career that has left a lasting impact on the sport. Known for his fearless approach and elegant stroke play, Dhawan has been a cornerstone of India’s batting lineup, particularly in ODI and T20 formats.
Rohit Sharma, who shared numerous memorable opening stands with Dhawan, took to Instagram to express his admiration and gratitude for his longtime teammate. In his heartfelt post, Rohit said, “When I think of playing with you, only one word comes to mind – ‘partnership.’ Our partnership on and off the field was as good as it gets. Your positivity, your energy, and your smile have lifted many spirits in the dressing room.” He continued by acknowledging Dhawan’s contribution to Indian cricket, saying, “You were the perfect partner to walk out with, and I always knew you had my back. Thank you for all those memories, my brother. Wishing you the best in this new chapter of your life!”
Dhawan’s career stats speak volumes about his contributions: 34 Tests, 167 ODIs, and 68 T20Is for India, during which he amassed over 10,000 runs across formats. His debut in Test cricket was nothing short of spectacular, scoring the fastest century by a debutant against Australia in 2013. In ODIs, Dhawan was particularly known for his performances in ICC tournaments, including the 2013 Champions Trophy, where he was the highest run-scorer.
Rohit and Dhawan formed one of the most successful opening pairs in ODI history, amassing over 5,000 runs together. Their on-field chemistry was a key factor in many of India’s victories, with their partnership often laying a solid foundation for the team.
As Dhawan bids farewell to cricket, tributes have poured in from all corners of the cricketing world. Fellow cricketers like Gautam Gambhir and Virender Sehwag praised Dhawan not just for his cricketing skills but for his resilience and cheerful personality. Gambhir called Dhawan a “fabulous cricketer” and a “positive influence,” while Sehwag emphasised the joy Dhawan brought to the game and to those around him.
Dhawan himself expressed a mix of emotions in his retirement announcement, reflecting on his journey with pride and gratitude. He thanked his family, coaches, teammates, and fans for their unwavering support and hinted at staying connected with the sport in new ways.
In his concluding remarks on Instagram, Rohit Sharma encapsulated the sentiment of many, saying, “The legacy you leave behind is one that will inspire the next generation of cricketers. You’ll always be ‘Gabbar’ to all of us.” As Dhawan steps away from the pitch, his legacy as a player who combined skill with spirit will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations.