Shikhar Dhawan, one of India’s most charismatic and successful opening batsmen, has finally shed light on his plans post-retirement from international cricket. After a glittering career that saw him don the Indian jersey with distinction across formats, Dhawan hinted that while his time at the highest level may be over, his love for the sport is far from fading. In a recent interview, Dhawan spoke candidly about his next steps and emphasized that his body is still conditioned for cricket, leaving fans excited about what lies ahead for the left-handed star.
Known for his aggressive stroke play and distinctive personality, Dhawan has been a mainstay in Indian cricket for over a decade. From being a prolific run-scorer in the 2013 ICC Champions Trophy to becoming one of India’s most consistent performers in ICC tournaments, Dhawan has built a legacy few can match. However, as younger talents began to rise through the ranks, Dhawan found himself transitioning out of India’s regular starting XI. Despite this, Dhawan’s passion for the game remains intact, and his recent statements suggest that his journey with cricket is far from over.
Dhawan’s Future Plans
In an interview with a leading sports channel, Dhawan discussed his fitness levels, expressing that his body still feels capable of handling the rigors of professional cricket. “My body is still conditioned for cricket. I have always prioritized fitness throughout my career, and that continues to be a core part of my lifestyle,” Dhawan said. “I may not be in the national setup anymore, but I’m not ready to step away from the game I love.”
Though he hasn’t played for India in recent months, Dhawan has kept himself active by participating in domestic cricket and in the Indian Premier League (IPL), where he continues to be a valuable asset for his franchise. Dhawan’s experience, consistency, and ability to mentor younger players have made him a significant figure in Indian cricket even as his international appearances have waned. Many speculated that Dhawan would retire quietly, but the cricketer has made it clear that he intends to remain involved in the sport in some capacity.
When asked whether he would consider continuing to play in T20 leagues around the world, Dhawan responded affirmatively. “Absolutely. I love the format, and I think T20 cricket is such an exciting brand of the game. It challenges you in different ways—mentally, physically, and tactically. I’m open to exploring opportunities in different leagues across the globe,” he said.
Dhawan also hinted at the possibility of taking up coaching or mentoring roles. “I’ve always enjoyed guiding the younger players, whether it’s at the domestic level or with my IPL team. Coaching is something that has crossed my mind, and I think I could bring a lot of experience to that role. But for now, I’m still focused on playing.”
A Glittering Career
Shikhar Dhawan’s career is defined by a number of high points, most notably his record-breaking Test debut, where he smashed 187 against Australia in 2013. He was the fastest Indian to reach 1,000 runs in One Day Internationals (ODIs) and became a regular fixture at the top of India’s batting order. His partnerships with fellow opener Rohit Sharma have become legendary, with the duo providing solid starts in numerous matches, especially in major tournaments like the ICC World Cup and ICC Champions Trophy.
Dhawan’s rise in international cricket also coincided with his growth as one of the most dependable performers in ICC events, where his aggressive starts were crucial to India’s success. He was the highest run-scorer in the 2013 Champions Trophy and played key roles in the 2015 and 2019 World Cups. His ability to score heavily in pressure situations made him a fan favorite and earned him the nickname “Gabbar,” a nod to his fierce on-field persona.
Looking Ahead
As Dhawan prepares to step away from the international spotlight, his legacy as one of India’s most successful openers is firmly intact. His ability to reinvent himself over the years, coupled with his longevity in a competitive cricket environment, has earned him widespread respect. Fans will be eager to see what the next chapter of his cricketing journey holds, whether it’s in franchise cricket, mentoring roles, or even as a coach.
“I’ve had a wonderful career, and I’m grateful for everything the game has given me,” Dhawan concluded. “But I still feel I have a lot to offer. My journey isn’t over yet.”
While his days of donning the Indian jersey may be over, Shikhar Dhawan’s enduring love for the game ensures that he will continue to be a presence in the cricketing world. His fitness, experience, and love for the sport will guide his next moves, and fans can look forward to seeing more of “Gabbar” in the years to come, both on and off the field.