Former India cricketer Shikhar Dhawan announced his retirement from international and domestic cricket on Saturday, August 24. Dhawan, who last represented India in an ODI series against Bangladesh in December 2022, lost his place in the squad to emerging talent Shubman Gill. The 38-year-old shared an emotional video message on social media, thanking fans for their unwavering support throughout his cricketing journey.

The Delhi-born opener made his international debut against Australia in an ODI in Visakhapatnam but had a rocky start, being dismissed for a two-ball duck. However, Dhawan bounced back in 2013, cementing his place in the Indian team across all three formats with standout performances.

In his farewell message, Dhawan expressed gratitude to everyone who played a role in his career. "My lifelong dream was to play for India, and I am grateful to have achieved that with the support of many people, including my family and my childhood coaches, Tarak Sinha and Madan Sharma. Cricket gave me another family, fame, and the love of my fans. But as they say, to continue the story, you have to turn the page. So, I’m announcing my retirement from international and domestic cricket," Dhawan said.

Reflecting on his career, he added, "As I bid farewell to this chapter, I am content knowing I gave my all for my country. I want to thank the BCCI and DDCA for the opportunities, and my fans for their endless love. Instead of feeling sad about not playing for India again, I remind myself to be happy that I had the honor to do so. That, to me, is the greatest achievement."

Shikhar Dhawan leaves behind an impressive legacy. On his Test debut on March 16, 2013, he set a record for the fastest century by a debutant, reaching the milestone in just 85 balls. Dhawan also earned the 'golden bat' for being the highest run-scorer in consecutive editions of the ICC Champions Trophy in 2013 and 2017, which earned him the nickname 'Mr. ICC' for his standout performances in major tournaments. He was India's top run-scorer in the 2015 ODI World Cup as well.

Over his career, Dhawan played 167 ODIs, amassing 6,793 runs at an average of 44.11 and a strike rate of 91.35, including 17 centuries and 39 fifties. In T20Is, he featured in 68 matches, scoring 1,759 runs at an average of 27.92 and a strike rate of 126.36, with 11 half-centuries. In Tests, Dhawan played 34 matches, accumulating 2,315 runs at an average of 40.61, with seven centuries and five fifties.

Though he has retired from international and domestic cricket, Dhawan will continue playing in the Indian Premier League (IPL), where he remains a significant presence.