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Shikhar Dhawan Battled Thumb Injury To Slam A Scintillating Ton In 2019 World Cup

Shikhar Dhawan played with fractured thumb Vs AUS (X)Shikhar Dhawan played with fractured thumb Vs AUS (X)

In the latest development, Indian stalwart, Shikhar Dhawan announced his retirement from international cricket on Saturday. 

The left-handed opener has numerous top-class performances with the bat but his one knock that is remembered is against Australia in the 2019 ICC Cricket World Cup. 

When Dhawan Played Against Australia With Fractured Thumb

Shikhar Dhawan's courageous and well-constructed innings of 117 runs against Australia in the 2019 ICC Cricket World Cup remains one of the most memorable displays of grit and determination in cricket. 

On June 9, 2019, at The Oval, London, Dhawan led India's batting charge with a stunning century despite sustaining a fractured thumb early in his innings. 

Facing a formidable Australian bowling attack, he was hit by a rising delivery from Pat Cummins, which struck him on his left thumb.

Despite the intense pain and swelling, Dhawan chose to continue batting and refused to let the injury hinder his performance.

His 117 runs came off 109 balls, adorned with 16 boundaries, playing a crucial role in setting up India’s total of 352/5. His determination and focus were evident as he dispatched the bowlers to all corners of the ground, effectively anchoring the innings. 

His innings was instrumental in India's victory over Australia by 36 runs.

“I have a few favourite innings that are close to my heart, especially the 2019 World Cup. We were playing a match against Australia. I was batting on 25 when I broke my thumb. The ball came at 150 clicks and hit my here (pointing at his left thumb). I popped painkillers and scored 117 from there." Dhawan told Hindustan Times.

It is important to mention that, unfortunately, the injury forced Dhawan to miss several subsequent matches in the tournament, which marked a bittersweet end to his World Cup campaign. 

Nonetheless, his heroic performance against Australia is celebrated as a testament to his warrior spirit, mental toughness and dedication required to excel at the highest level of cricket.