New Delhi: Shikhar Dhawan, the former India opener, officially announced his retirement from cricket on Saturday, drawing the curtains on a distinguished career during which he established himself as one of India’s most prolific top-order batsmen.
The Delhi-born cricketer made his international debut in a One Day International (ODI) against Australia in 2010, and his final appearance for India came in December 2022 in a 50-overs match against Bangladesh—a format where Dhawan consistently shone.
“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, 38, said in a heartfelt video shared on his social media platforms. He added, “I’ve told myself, ‘don’t feel sad that you won’t play for India anymore, but feel happy that you played for the country.'”
Throughout his career, Dhawan accumulated 24 international hundreds and was particularly effective in multi-nation tournaments such as the ICC Champions Trophy, Asia Cup, and the 2015 World Cup.
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Dhawan’s blistering 85-ball century against Australia during his debut Test in 2013 remains the fastest hundred by a debutant in the history of the game.
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In addition to his remarkable batting feats, Dhawan also had stints as captain of the Indian team in various limited-overs series, stepping up when regular captains were rested.
