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'Didn't Want To Play IPL' - Shikhar Dhawan Shares Real Reason Behind His Retirement

Shikhar Dhawan in IPL (iplt20)Shikhar Dhawan in IPL (iplt20)

India's legendary opener, Shikhar Dhawan, officially announced his retirement from all forms of cricket in August 2024, ending an illustrious career that spanned over a decade. The star batter opened up about his decision during the Legends League Cricket event, where he revealed that a lack of 'inspiration' to continue playing competitive cricket led him to this choice.

Shikhar Dhawan's Significant Contribution To Indian Cricket

The stalwart of Indian cricket played 34 Tests, 167 ODIs, and 68 T20Is and left an indelible mark on the international stage. However, the explosive opener's journey ended as he realized the passion that fueled his long-standing career had started to wane. 

Dhawan's consistency in ODIs was particularly noteworthy. Throughout his career, he accumulated 6,793 runs in ODIs at an average of 44.11, with 17 centuries and 39 half-centuries. His swashbuckling approach at the top of the order made him a crucial player for India during his peak years.

Known for his explosive batting at the top of the order, he carved out a niche as one of India's premier white-ball players, especially in ICC tournaments.

Shikhar Dhawan Explains Retirement Call

In a recent interview with PTI, Shikhar Dhawan expressed that he lacked the internal motivation to continue playing domestic cricket, which he had started at a young age.

"I didn't want to play domestic cricket, which I started playing at the age of 18 or 19, and I didn't have that inspiration from inside to play that (form of) cricket. If I look back, the last two years of my cricketing career, I wasn't playing much of international cricket and I was playing IPL to IPL, so I wasn't playing much of cricket (overall)," Dhawan told PTI during the interview.

Shikhar Dhawan's Batting Exploits In IPL

Beyond his international career, Dhawan enjoyed exceptional success in IPL, where he left an indelible mark. Playing for various franchises, including Sunrisers Hyderabad and Punjab Kings, Dhawan became one of the most consistent performers in the tournament's history. 

In 222 IPL matches, he scored 6,769 runs, including two centuries and 51 half-centuries, making him one of the highest run-scorers in the league.

His retirement has ended his distinguished career in Indian cricket, one marked by stellar performances, memorable moments, and an enduring legacy. Dhawan's infectious smile, signature moustache twirl, and aggressive style of play will be fondly remembered.