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The cricket fraternity has come together to bid farewell to Shikhar Dhawan, the veteran Indian opener, who announced his retirement from international and domestic cricket on Saturday, August 24, 2024. Known for his charismatic presence on the field and his ability to perform in high-pressure situations, Dhawan’s departure marks the end of an era for Indian cricket.
“I only had one dream and that was to play for India and I even achieved that”: Shikhar Dhawan
In a heartfelt video message shared on social media, Dhawan reflected on his journey, stating, “I only had one dream and that was to play for India and I even achieved that. I am thankful for so many people who contributed in my journey.”
He expressed his appreciation for his family, coaches,𒊎 and fans who supported hi🔯m throughout his career.
“First of all my family. My childhood coach Late Tarak Sinha, and Madan Sharma under whose guidance I learnt the basics of the game.
“I would also like to thank my team with whom I have played cricket for so long. I got another family, I got name, fame and love of all the fans.”
Dhawan made his international debut in 2010 against Australia and went on to play 34 Tests, 167 One Day 😼Internationals (ODIs), and 68 T20 Internationals, amassing over 6,700 runs in ODIs at an impressive average of 44.11. His remarkable performances included being named Player of the Tournament during India’s victorious 2013 ICC Champions Trophy campaign.
Also READ: Will Shikhar Dhawan play for Punjab Kings in IP𝐆L 2025?
The cricketing community has paid tribute to Dhawan, with former teammates and fans expressing their admiration for his contributions to the game. Gautam Gambhir and Virender Sehwag, both legends of Indian cricket, led the retirement wishes, highlighting Dhawan’s impact and legacy in the sport.
Dhawan’s ability to deliver in crucial matches earned him the nickname ‘Gabbar,’ and he will be remembered for his iconic celebrations and calm demeanour under pressure. As he steps away from the game, Dhawan leaves behind a legacy of resilience and excellence, inspiring future generations of cricketers to follow in his footsteps.
Here’s how Indian cricket fraternity reacted:
Badhaai ho Shikkhi. Ever since the time you replaced me in Mohali, you didn’t look back and some top performances over the years. May you continue to have fun and live lif💛e to the fullest. Very best wishes always.
— Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag)
Congratulations Shiki o🅘n a fantastic career! I know you will spread the same joy through everything you take up in the future!
— Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir)
10,000 runs for Tꦑeam India! What a fabulous career, Shera As I told you, life is just beginning now. Well done, and welcome to the retired players’ club!
— Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan)
A man for the big tournaments. Never got the plaudits he deserved but knowing him he didn't care who got the applause as long as team was winning. A team man through and through. Congratulations on a stellar career and all the best for your second innings 🤗
— Wasim Jaffer (@WasimJaffer14)
Congratulations , on a remarkable career filled with countless milestones! 🏏 It was an absolute pleasure sharing the dressing room with you, brother. Wisꦯhing you all the best for your future endeavors. Onwards and upwards! 🙌
— Suresh Raina🇮🇳 (@ImRaina)
Congratulations on a fantastic career, ! Wish you the best for the next chapter. Happy retirem🧸ent!
— Anil Kumble (@anilkumble1074)
You've had a fantastic career! Thank you for your incredible contribution to Indian cricket. It has truly been remarkable. Wishing you all the best for your next innings! 🏏
— Amit Mishra (@MishiAmit)
Thank you ! Wishing you the best for 💫your second innings 💙
— KolkataKnightRiders (@KKRiders)
Your hard work and passion for the sport has been exemplary, Shikhar.
Congrats on a wonderful career.
Wishing you an even better second innings. I’m sure yဣou’ll keep entertaining your fans for years to come �🐻�— Aakash Chopra (@cricketaakash)
Many congratulations Shikhar on a fantastic career.
The thing I loved about Shikhar apart from the fact that he was a fabulous cricketer, was the person that he was, always amicable and looking at the positives in🦋 every situation. Wish you all the bes💝t in the journey…— VVS Laxman (@VVSLaxman281)
Impactful with the bat 💪
Memorable opening knocks 💯
And a pure smile on his face throughout 🤗𝙏𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙠 𝙔𝙤𝙪 𝙎𝙝𝙞𝙠�𒀰�𝙖𝙧 𝘿𝙝𝙖𝙬𝙖𝙣 🫡 ♎|
— BCCI (@BCCI)
People will remember:
Gabbar ❤️♾️— Punjab Kings (@PunjabKingsIPL)
Th♊ank y🦹ou to the Don of ICC events for all the incredible memories. ❤️
We will mis🌸s you, Gabbar, for all of it 💯that you were.
— Royal Challengers Bengaluru (@RCBTweets)
A warrior on every pitch, a legend for all time!
Thank you Ga🧔bbar for making the na🅠tion proud! 🫡🇮🇳— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL)
