Indian star cricketer Shikhar Dhawan has announced his retirement from all forms of cricket, both at the international and domestic levels via a post on social media.
Since his non-selection in the Indian team in recent times, Dhawan has majorly only been seen at the Indian Premier League (IPL) where he had last represented the Punjab Kings.
Dhawan, who is popularly known by his nickname "Gabbar", made his international debut in a 50-over game back in 2010, and had enjoyed a successful India career spanning close to 13 years.
The former Indian opener will fondly be remembered for his iconic celebration on the field and for his contributions to the country's ICC Champions Trophy victory in 2013, where he was adjudged the Player of the Tournament, and also won the golden bat for scoring the most runs in that competition.
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What was Shikhar Dhawan's farewell message as he announced his retirement from cricket?
The former Indian cricketer took to the social media platform X (formerly twitter) to announce his retirement from both international and domestic cricket, with the caption:
"As I close this chapter of my cricketing journey, I carry with me countless memories and gratitude. Thank you for the love and support! Jai Hind!"
The 38-year-old started his goodbye message saying: "Today when I look back, I only have good memories. Looking forward, I can see a whole new world waiting for me."
"I only had one dream and that was to play for India, and I achieved that. I am thankful to so many people who contributed to my journey. 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 many years. I not only got another family, but I also got name, fame and love from all the fans."
"There is a saying that you need to turn the page to read the next part of the story. That is what I am going to do. I am announcing my retirement from international and domestic cricket."
Dhawan, who last played for India in an ODI against Bangladesh in December 2022, said that he was happy with all the opportunity he got to represent his country, and that he leaves without regrets.
"I've told myself I should not feel sad that you won't play for India again but feel happy that you played for the country," he concluded.
Further, he had made his last appearance in the IPL 2024 season for the Punjab Kings against his former team, the Sunrisers Hyderabad, but was ruled out of the season due to an injury.
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What is Shikhar Dhawan's record in international cricket?
| Format | Matches | Innings | Runs | Average | Strike Rate | 50s | 100s | Highest |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tests | 34 | 58 | 2315 | 40,61 | 66.94 | 5 | 7 | 190 |
| ODIs | 167 | 164 | 6793 | 44.11 | 91.35 | 39 | 17 | 143 |
| T20Is | 68 | 66 | 1759 | 27.92 | 126.36 | 11 | 0 | 92 |
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