Can still contribute in T20 format for India: Shikhar Dhawan

Shikhar Dhawan, who is having a delightful time with the Punjab Kings (PBKS) franchise in 2022, has expressed his view of making a comeback in India's T20 side. The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 has fetched the left-handed opener 412 runs at an average of 38.27, with the Kings' final league game on Sunday evening.

Considered an ODI specialist nowadays, Dhawan, in an interview with PTI, says that he can still contribute in the shortest format given his experience at the top level.

"Though I remain an integral part of the team, I still feel that I can contribute in the shortest format because of my experience. I have been quite doing well in the T20 format. Whatever role I have been given, I have done well. 

I have managed to stay consistent in the formats that I am playing, whether it is the IPL or at the domestic level, and I am enjoying it. Consistency is not only about scoring fifties or hundreds frequently, but also about maintaining even gaps between such scores," he explained.

The 36-year-old has been one of the most consistent IPL batters, scoring above 300 runs in each edition of the tournament since 2015. He was ignored for the ICC T20 World Cup 2021 in favour of a young Ishan Kishan.

He maintained that playing in the T20 World Cup for India remains a dream for him.

"Yes, I am a very positive person. It was a dream come true for me to lead the team last year. For the T20 World Cup, they thought the (chosen) players were better than me and fair enough. Whatever decision selectors make, I respect that. That happens in life. You accept it and keep doing your job. I only focus on what is in my control and try to make the most of my opportunities," he expressed.

Dhawan has played 149 ODIs and 68 T20Is for India since making his debut way back in 2010 and feels he has more cricket left in him.

"I don't put unnecessary pressure on myself. It's a race that never ends. If I get into that mindset, I will not be happy, and it's not good energy. My ODI average is 45.53. I am always looking for growth, analysing if I can get better. We as cricketers have to remain on our toes and fit to be relevant in the race to represent India. 

I am playing for the next three years at least. I have been batting quite well for the past few years; I am hopeful and optimistic that the way I am performing, there are many milestones to achieve," the Delhi-born described.