Can IPL 2023 Lead To Shikhar Dhawan's ODI Comeback?


image-lfqp41gnShikhar Dhawan will lead Punjab Kings in IPL 2023 [Source: Twitter]

Veteran Indian opener Shikhar Dhawan recently made it into the headlines of every newspaper as he picked Shubman Gill ahead of himself to don the Indian ODI jersey from now onwards. 

Ever since making the interesting comment during his interview with Aaj Tak, the stylish southpaw has, albeit unknowingly, breathed life into the question seeking Rohit Sharma's ablest opening partner for the national side heading to the World Cup. 


The Dilemma Surrounding Indian Top Order

image-lfqox540Ishan Kishan has been underwhelming at the top [Source: AP]

Despite being dropped from T20Is and Tests, Dhawan was a regular feature in the ODI side not long ago. The selectors even trusted his leadership qualities, naming him India's ODI skipper for New Zealand and Zimbabwe tours. 

However, unfortunately, in came the disastrous Bangladesh tour, where Mehidy Hasan Miraz not only bullied him but also cut short his smooth-sailing career. 

Dhawan's abysmal performance on that tour led to his ouster, with Ishan Kishan being promoted to the third opener's slot in the pecking order. However, the home series against New Zealand and Australia raised serious question marks on Ishan's credibility as a batter, as he recorded a string of low scores before being dumped from the side. 

Furthermore, Shubman Gill, despite being incredibly gifted, seemed to lack the big match tempo, as he gifted his wicket to the Aussies, playing lose shots when he was well-set. 

Considering all these factors, the question arises, Should India recall Dhawan into their ODI side? With the World Cup to start after more than six months, the Men in Blue still have plenty of time to bring back their workhorse, but will they do it? 

We must consider several factors, as mentioned below, to draw a conclusion. 


Arguments in favour of Dhawan

image-lfqozah0Shikhar Dhawan has done phenomenally well in ICC events [Source: Twitter]

Experienced campaigner: The first factor that works in favour of Dhawan is his experience in international cricket. After a shilly-shally start to his career, the southpaw had a breakthrough Champions Trophy campaign in 2013, cementing his place in the national setup. Overall, he has represented India in 164 ODIs, amassing 6793 runs, including 17 tons, at a healthy average of 44.11 and a strike rate of 91.35. 

Left hander: By preferring Gill over Dhawan, India committed a huge tactical blunder, forming an RHB-heavy batting unit. With Rishabh Pant set to miss plenty of action, India will have an all-RHB top five if they slot Gill at the top alongside Sharma. This is nothing but a recipe for self-destruction, as the opponents will attack the Indian batting lineup with left-arm swing bowlers upfront. Having a left-right combination at the top would make things trickier for the new-ball operators, as they will have to adjust their line and lengths frequently. 

Performance in ICC events: The most important reason that backs Dhawan's re-inclusion into the side is his overall performance in the ICC events. Statistically, the Delhi batter has been India's go-to man in the ICC ODI tournaments, garnering 1238 runs, including six tons, at an outstanding average of 65.15. 


Arguments against Dhawan

image-lfqp2odiShubman Gill has performed admirably in ODIs [Source: Twitter]

Recent form and Poor strike rate: Dhawan was having a great ride in ODIs until 2022, when his form dipped and he experienced the most horrible year, by his standards, in his career. Overall, in 2022, the talisman managed 688 runs in 22 appearances, at a miserable strike rate of 74.22. His struggle to accelerate called for a change, prompting India to lock the dynamic Shubman Gill at the top of the order. 

Shubman Gill's success: Since becoming a regular in the ODI setup, Gill has grabbed the opportunity with both hands. The stylish right-handed batter's stature grew exponentially last year, where he smashed 638 runs at an average of 70.89 and a blistering strike rate of 102.57. He has had an even more prolific 2023, managing 624 runs in only nine outings at a superb average of 78 and a strike rate of 117.51. 


Central contract retention: A glimmer of hope?

Despite being sidelined from the ODIs, Dhawan has retained his place in the central contract, announced on Sunday. This clearly suggests that the Indian management has still not moved on from Dhawan, who might make a comeback in the ODI series scheduled before the World Cup. 


IPL 2023: The Deciding Factor

So, in such a scenario, the factor that will decide if Shikhar Dhawan will earn a recall is the upcoming Indian Premier League, where the legendary batter will be seen leading Punjab Kings. 

While the Kings will expect him to play a pivotal role, both as a batter and skipper, to end their title drought, the player will be determined to showcase his match-winning prowess on the biggest stage for the umpteenth time.