February 12, 2025: Former Indian cricketer Shikhar Dhawan opened up about his incredible journey from making his Test debut with the legendary Sachin Tendulkar to retiring from international cricket. Dhawan, who has left an indelible mark in world cricket, expressed deep gratitude for his career, which has been filled with memorable moments.
Recalling the moment he received his Test debut cap from Sachin Tendulkar, Dhawan shared a touching memory. Tendulkar advised him to be “gutsy” and to “show his guts,” particularly when facing fast bowlers at speeds of 140-150 km/h. Dhawan mentioned that it was not just about the fear of getting hurt, but about counter-attacking and preparing mentally to face such challenges. He also revealed that he felt incredibly fortunate to have played alongside Tendulkar in the IPL and was proud of the record he set during his debut Test match, scoring the fastest Test century.
Reflecting on Tendulkar’s retirement in 2013, Dhawan recalled the farewell series against West Indies at home. Dhawan admitted that he “felt normal and did not cry,” as he tried to remain balanced throughout the emotional farewell. He shared that the moment when Tendulkar gave his speech, with tears in his eyes and his family by his side, was a beautiful memory he would always cherish.
Dhawan’s illustrious career spanned across all formats, but he was especially dominant in ODIs. In 167 appearances, he amassed 6,793 runs at an average of 44.1, including 17 centuries and 39 fifties. His Test career saw him score 2,315 runs in 34 matches, with seven centuries and five half-centuries. Dhawan also made significant contributions in T20Is, with 1,759 runs in 68 matches, including 11 fifties.
Beyond international cricket, Dhawan’s career flourished in domestic cricket, where he played 122 first-class matches, accumulating 8,499 runs at an average of 44.26, with 25 centuries and 29 fifties. In List A cricket, Dhawan scored a massive 12,074 runs across 302 matches, including 30 centuries and 67 half-centuries.
Dhawan’s impact extended to the Indian Premier League (IPL) as well, where he became the second-highest run-scorer of all time, with 6,769 runs in 222 matches, at an average of 35.25, including two centuries and 51 fifties. He was also part of the Indian squad that won the ICC Champions Trophy in 2013 and played a key role in Sunrisers Hyderabad’s IPL title victory in 2016.
After hanging up his boots from international cricket, Dhawan expressed a sense of “shukrana” (gratitude) for the remarkable journey he had experienced. His legacy in Indian cricket remains firmly etched, and fans and cricket experts will continue to remember the stylish left-handed batsman for his many accomplishments across formats.