- Virat Kohli: Virat Kohli gave a very interesting reaction to the retirement of Indian batsman Shikhar Dhawan. Is Kohli not happy with the retirement of his teammate? Let’s find out.
Source : X (Twitter)
Virat Kohli On Shikhar Dhawan Retirement:
Indian cricket team’s star batsman Shikhar Dhawan said goodbye to international and domestic cricket last Saturday (24 August). Dhawan, who was out of Team India for a long time, suddenly decided to retire. Now Virat Kohli has given a very interesting reaction on Dhawan’s retirement. So let’s know what Kohli said on Dhawan’s retirement.
King Kohli wrote on the post, “Shikhar Dhawan, from your fearless debut to becoming one of India’s most reliable openers, you gave us countless memories to cheer about. Your passion for the game, your sportsmanship and your trademark smile will be missed but your legacy will live on. Thank you for the memories, unforgettable performances and always leading with all your heart. Best of luck for your next innings, off the field Gabbar!”
Shikhar @SDhawan25 from your fearless debut to becoming one of India's most dependable openers, you've given us countless memories to cherish. Your passion for the game, your sportsmanship and your trademark smile will be missed, but your legacy lives on. Thank you for the…
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) August 25, 2024
The last match was played for Team India about 2 years ago
Let us tell you that Shikhar Dhawan played his last match for Team India in December 2022, which was an ODI played against Bangladesh. After this, 38-year-old Shikhar could not regain his place in Team India and eventually he had to decide to retire.
Such was his international career
It is worth noting that Dhawan played international cricket for Team India from 2010 to 2022. He made his international debut in October 2010 through ODI against Australia. He played all three formats for India. Dhawan played a total of 34 Tests, 167 ODIs and 68 T20 International matches. In Tests, he scored 2315 runs at an average of 40.61. Apart from this, he scored 6793 runs in ODIs at an average of 44.11 and scored 1759 runs in T20 Internationals at an average of 27.92 and a strike rate of 126.36. Dhawan’s bat produced 7 centuries in Test cricket and 17 centuries in ODI cricket.
The world of cricket is not just about runs, wickets, and records; it’s also about camaraderie, friendships, and the bonds that players build over years of playing together. This was evident when Shikhar Dhawan, one of India’s most beloved cricketers, announced his retirement from international cricket. While the news was met with a flood of tributes from fans and fellow cricketers, one reaction stood out—Virat Kohli’s. The former Indian captain’s response to Dhawan’s retirement has sparked conversations about their deep connection and whether Kohli is truly happy with his teammate’s decision to hang up his boots.
Shikhar Dhawan: The End of an Era
Shikhar Dhawan, affectionately known as “Gabbar” by fans and teammates alike, has been a stalwart of Indian cricket for over a decade. Known for his aggressive batting, fearless attitude, and trademark mustache-twirling celebrations, Dhawan has left an indelible mark on the game. His contributions in ICC tournaments, particularly in the Champions Trophy and the World Cup, have been nothing short of legendary.
However, as the years passed and younger talents emerged, Dhawan found himself on the fringes of the Indian team. With fewer opportunities at the international level, Dhawan finally decided it was time to step away from the game, focusing on other ventures and spending time with his family.
Virat Kohli’s Reaction: A Mix of Emotions
Virat Kohli and Shikhar Dhawan have shared countless partnerships on the field, many of which were crucial in India’s victories. Off the field, their bond has been equally strong, marked by mutual respect and camaraderie. So, when Dhawan announced his retirement, Kohli’s reaction was bound to be emotional.
In his tribute to Dhawan, Kohli took to social media to express his feelings. His words were heartfelt, reflecting both admiration for Dhawan’s illustrious career and a tinge of sadness over his retirement. Kohli wrote, “You’ve been an amazing teammate and a great friend, Shikhi. We’ve had some unforgettable moments together on the field, and it’s hard to imagine the game without you. Wishing you all the best for your next chapter, but honestly, it won’t be the same without you.”
While the message was filled with praise, it also hinted at Kohli’s reluctance to accept Dhawan’s retirement. The phrase “it won’t be the same without you” suggests that Kohli will deeply miss having Dhawan by his side, both as a teammate and as a friend. This sentiment resonates with many fans who have witnessed the duo’s chemistry on and off the field.
A Bond Beyond Cricket
Kohli and Dhawan’s friendship goes beyond the cricket pitch. Both players hail from Delhi and have played together since their early days in domestic cricket. Their shared experiences, from representing India in ICC tournaments to playing for the same IPL franchise, have strengthened their bond over the years.
Kohli has always been vocal about the importance of team dynamics and how friendships within the team contribute to its success. His connection with Dhawan is a testament to this belief. Losing a friend and a trusted partner like Dhawan from the international circuit is undoubtedly a significant change for Kohli, and his reaction reflects this emotional upheaval.
The Legacy of Shikhar Dhawan
As Dhawan steps away from international cricket, he leaves behind a legacy that will be remembered for years to come. His aggressive style, consistency in ICC tournaments, and ability to perform under pressure have made him one of India’s most successful openers. His departure marks the end of an era, but his impact on Indian cricket and his partnership with players like Kohli will be remembered fondly.
Conclusion: A New Chapter, But Memories Remain
While Virat Kohli’s reaction to Shikhar Dhawan’s retirement hints at a mix of emotions, it’s clear that their friendship will endure beyond the cricket field. Kohli’s words reflect the respect and admiration he has for Dhawan, as well as the inevitable sadness of seeing a close friend move on from the game they both love.
As Dhawan embarks on a new chapter in his life, fans, and fellow cricketers will cherish the memories he has created over the years. And though Kohli may be saddened by Dhawan’s retirement, he, like many others, will celebrate the incredible career of “Gabbar” and the unforgettable moments they shared together on the cricket field.