[Watch] Shikhar Dhawan Brings Back Kabaddi-Style Celebration In Legends League Cricket
Shikhar Dhawan doing his iconic celebration (X)
Shikhar Dhawan may have recently retired from international cricket, but the ‘Gabbar’ of Indian cricket is far from done entertaining fans. Representing the Gujarat Greats in the ongoing Legends League Cricket 2024, Dhawan once again took the spotlight in a manner that has become almost as famous as his hard-hitting batting – with his signature kabaddi-style celebration.
Shikhar Dhawan Did His Kabaddi Style Celebration After Catching Kedar Jadhav
During Match 4 of the tournament against Southern Super Stars, Shikhar Dhawan brought the crowd to its feet with an iconic moment that transported fans back to his international playing days.
The moment came when former CSK star Kedar Jadhav attempted a powerful sweep off a delivery from left-arm spinner Manan Sharma in the ninth over. The ball took a top-edge and flew high toward the slips.
Dhawan, who was stationed perfectly, tracked the ball and moved to his right to complete the catch. But it wasn’t just the wicket that stole the show—it was what happened next.
As Dhawan safely pouched the catch, he broke into his famous kabaddi-style celebration, lifting his left leg high, tapping his thigh, and pointing towards the sky. It was a moment of pure nostalgia for fans who have long associated the quirky celebration with the southpaw's exuberant personality on the field.
Jadhav’s wicket was the third to fall for Southern Super Stars, and after his departure, the team, captained by Dinesh Karthik, struggled to recover, managing a total of 144/9 in their 20 overs.
At the time of writing, Gujarat Greats are strongly placed in their chase, with Dhawan batting on a brisk 29 off 15 balls, which includes two boundaries and three sixes. Partnered with Morne van Wyk, who is batting on 9 off 12 balls, the Gujarat side needs another 106 runs from 93 balls to secure victory.
The Story Behind Dhawan's Kabaddi-Style Celebration
Dhawan’s celebration isn’t just a random act – it’s because of his love for the sport of kabaddi. During a candid conversation on Breakfast with Champions with Gaurav Kapoor, Dhawan had revealed the origin of his unique celebration.
“I started the kabaddi-style celebration first in Australia when I took a catch to dismiss Shane Watson. I enjoy watching Kabaddi. It is very entertaining for me,” Dhawan said.
The celebration, which has become synonymous with his on-field persona, is something he does with passion.
“I do this with all my heart and that’s why maybe people also like it. Whenever I stand at the boundary, fans see me and re-enact my kabaddi-style celebration,” Dhawan added.
As Gujarat Greats inch closer to victory, one thing is certain – Shikhar Dhawan’s kabaddi-style celebration will continue to light up the tournament, reminding everyone why ‘Gabbar’ is still a force to be reckoned with on the cricket field.