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The world of cricket bid farewell to a legendary batsman, Shikhar Dhawan, as he announced his retirement from all forms of the game. His departure marked the end of an era, leaving behind a legacy of impactful performances and a devoted fan base. In a heartfelt tribute, former Indian cricket team head coach and director Ravi Shastri expressed his admiration and gratitude for Dhawan's contributions, highlighting his memorable innings and the joy he brought to the sport.
Shastri, known for his forthright commentary and unwavering support for his players, took to Twitter to share his sentiments. He fondly addressed Dhawan as 'Shiki Boy,' a testament to their close bond forged during their time together on the field. Shastri reminisced about Dhawan's match-winning innings in ICC tournaments, Asia Cups, and that unforgettable knock in Galle, emphasizing their enduring impact. These moments, he declared, would be etched in the annals of cricketing history.
Beyond the accolades and achievements, Shastri acknowledged Dhawan's enduring spirit and his potential to continue influencing the sport, even after his retirement. He expressed confidence that Dhawan, despite being young at heart, would find new ways to contribute to the world of cricket. Shastri's message resonated with the sentiment of many who witnessed Dhawan's illustrious career. His retirement was a bittersweet moment, marking the end of a chapter but also holding the promise of new beginnings.
Dhawan's retirement marked the end of a significant chapter in Indian cricket. He rose through the ranks, captivating fans with his swashbuckling batting style and ability to effortlessly score runs. He represented India across all formats of the game, but his true forte was in the One-Day Internationals (ODIs), where his flamboyant approach and power-hitting made him a force to be reckoned with.
In 167 ODIs, Dhawan amassed 6,793 runs at an impressive average of 44.1, demonstrating his consistency and ability to deliver under pressure. His tally includes 17 centuries and 39 half-centuries, highlighting his knack for scoring big runs and his ability to adapt to different situations. Dhawan's ODI career is a testament to his talent and dedication, solidifying his place among the greats of the game.
His contributions extended beyond ODIs, as he also made a significant impact in Test cricket, where he formed memorable partnerships with Murali Vijay. In 34 Test matches, Dhawan scored 2,315 runs at an average of 40.6, adding seven centuries and five half-centuries to his repertoire. He showcased his ability to adapt to the longer format, demonstrating his resilience and consistency in the face of challenging conditions.
Dhawan's career also included a stint in the T20I format, where he played 68 matches and scored 1,759 runs at an average of 27.9, including 11 fifties. While his impact in this format was less pronounced, his ability to strike the ball cleanly and his quick-fire innings made him a valuable asset to the Indian team. Dhawan's accomplishments extend beyond the international stage, as he also made a significant contribution to domestic cricket, where his performances consistently impressed.
In 122 first-class matches, Dhawan scored a massive 8,499 runs at an average of 44.26, with 25 centuries and 29 fifties. He also made a significant impact in the List A format, playing 302 matches and scoring a whopping 12,074 runs at an average of 43.90, including 30 centuries and 67 half-centuries. His remarkable statistics are a testament to his consistency and longevity in the game.
Dhawan's career also saw him thrive in the Indian Premier League (IPL), where he became the second-highest run-getter of all time, scoring 6,769 runs in 222 matches at an average of 35.25, with two centuries and 51 fifties. He also secured an ICC Champions Trophy with India in 2013 and an IPL title with Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in 2016.
With his retirement, a chapter in Indian cricket has come to a close, but the memories of his performances and his contribution to the sport will continue to inspire generations to come. Dhawan's career is a testament to his talent, dedication, and the enduring passion for the game, leaving behind a legacy that will be cherished by fans for years to come.
Source: Ravi Shastri Pays Tribute To Shikhar Dhawan In heartfelt Retirement Message