Does Shikhar Dhawan Still Play? After Retirement?

Shikhar Dhawan, often referred to as "Gabbar" in the cricketing world, has been one of the most prominent figures in Indian cricket. Known for his explosive batting, charismatic personality, and a knack for stepping up during crucial matches, Dhawan has left an indelible mark on the sport. But as time passes and new talent emerges, fans and cricket enthusiasts alike often wonder: Does Shikhar Dhawan still play? This article delves deep into Dhawan's current status in cricket, examining his recent performances, roles in various teams, and what the future might hold for this stalwart of Indian cricket.

Shikhar Dhawan's Cricketing Journey: A Brief Overview

Before diving into his current status, it’s essential to revisit Shikhar Dhawan’s remarkable journey. Dhawan made his debut for India in 2010 in a One Day International (ODI) against Australia. However, it was his Test debut in 2013 against the same team that truly put him on the map. Dhawan smashed the fastest century on debut, scoring 187 runs off 174 balls, a record that still stands today.

Over the years, Dhawan became a mainstay in India’s limited-overs teams. His left-handed batting style, combined with his ability to dominate both pace and spin, made him a formidable opener alongside Rohit Sharma. The duo became one of the most successful opening pairs in ODIs, consistently providing solid starts for India in major tournaments like the ICC Cricket World Cup and the ICC Champions Trophy.

Dhawan’s Recent Performances and Current Form

International Cricket

As of the latest updates in 2024, Shikhar Dhawan is not a regular feature in India’s Test and T20 International teams. The emergence of young talent such as Shubman Gill and Ishan Kishan, coupled with the rise of KL Rahul as a versatile top-order batsman, has made it challenging for Dhawan to secure a spot in these formats. However, Dhawan remains a valuable asset in the ODI format, where his experience and consistency are highly valued, especially with the 2023 ICC Cricket World Cup on the horizon.

In recent years, Dhawan has shown glimpses of his vintage self in ODIs, with notable performances against teams like Sri Lanka and the West Indies. His ability to anchor the innings while also accelerating when needed continues to be a hallmark of his game. However, age and injuries have somewhat affected his consistency, leading to fluctuating form.

Indian Premier League (IPL)

Shikhar Dhawan has been a pivotal figure in the Indian Premier League (IPL), one of the most competitive T20 leagues globally. Over the years, he has represented several franchises, including Delhi Capitals and Sunrisers Hyderabad, and has consistently been among the top run-scorers in the league.

As of the 2024 season, Dhawan is captaining the Punjab Kings. His leadership, combined with his experience, has been instrumental in guiding young talents within the team. Although his strike rate in T20s has been a topic of discussion, Dhawan’s ability to anchor the innings and play big shots when required makes him a vital player for the Punjab Kings.

Domestic Cricket

Apart from international and IPL cricket, Shikhar Dhawan continues to play domestic cricket, representing Delhi in the Indian domestic circuit. His experience has been invaluable for the Delhi team, particularly in the Ranji Trophy, where he has provided guidance to younger players while also contributing with the bat.

Challenges and Opportunities Ahead

Injuries and Age-Related Decline

One of the most significant challenges facing Shikhar Dhawan is his age. As a cricketer in his late 30s, Dhawan’s fitness and agility have naturally declined compared to his younger days. Injuries, particularly to his shoulder and knee, have also hampered his ability to play consistently at the highest level.

However, Dhawan’s experience and understanding of the game have allowed him to adapt his playing style. While he may not be as aggressive as he once was, Dhawan has become more selective in his shot-making, focusing on playing longer innings rather than quickfire starts. This adaptability has enabled him to remain relevant in the ODI format, where his role as an opener is crucial.

Competition from Younger Players

The rise of young Indian cricketers has made it increasingly difficult for Dhawan to secure a place in the national team. Players like Shubman Gill, Ruturaj Gaikwad, and Prithvi Shaw have all impressed in various formats, putting pressure on veterans like Dhawan to perform consistently.

Despite the competition, Dhawan’s experience gives him an edge, especially in high-pressure situations. His ability to perform in ICC tournaments and crucial matches has been a significant factor in his continued presence in the ODI squad. However, to maintain his spot, Dhawan will need to keep scoring runs and prove his fitness consistently.

Future Prospects: What Lies Ahead for Shikhar Dhawan?

ODI Cricket: A Potential Swan Song?

With the 2023 ICC Cricket World Cup looming, Shikhar Dhawan’s focus will likely be on making the most of his remaining opportunities in ODI cricket. The World Cup could potentially be Dhawan’s last major tournament, and he would undoubtedly want to leave a lasting impression. His experience in English conditions, where the World Cup is set to be held, could be invaluable for India.

Mentorship and Leadership Roles

As Dhawan’s playing career winds down, he is likely to transition into more mentorship and leadership roles. His experience and understanding of the game make him an ideal candidate for coaching or mentoring younger players. Additionally, his captaincy role in the IPL has demonstrated his ability to lead a team, a skill that could be useful in coaching roles at both domestic and international levels.

Legacy and Impact on Indian Cricket

Regardless of how many years he has left in professional cricket, Shikhar Dhawan’s legacy is secure. He will be remembered as one of India’s most successful openers, a player who delivered on the biggest stages, and a charismatic figure who brought energy and passion to the field. His impact on Indian cricket, particularly in the limited-overs formats, will be felt for years to come.

Conclusion

In summary, Shikhar Dhawan still plays, but his role and frequency of appearances have evolved with time. While he may no longer be a regular in all formats, Dhawan continues to be a significant presence in ODI cricket and the IPL. His journey reflects the challenges of maintaining a long career in professional sports, but also the resilience and adaptability that have made him a cricketing icon.

As of now, Shikhar Dhawan has not officially retired from professional cricket. He continues to play, primarily in the One Day International (ODI) format and the Indian Premier League (IPL). However, with his career advancing and the rise of younger talent, questions about his future in the sport have naturally arisen.

What Could Happen After Retirement?

When Shikhar Dhawan eventually decides to retire from professional cricket, several paths might be open to him:

1. Mentorship and Coaching: Given his experience and deep understanding of the game, Dhawan could transition into a coaching or mentorship role. His leadership skills, demonstrated in the IPL, could be invaluable in nurturing young talent.

2. Commentary and Media: Like many former cricketers, Dhawan could explore a career in cricket commentary or analysis. His insights into the game and charismatic personality would make him a natural fit for television or online platforms.

3. Cricket Administration: Dhawan might also consider roles in cricket administration, contributing to the development of the sport at the state or national level.

4. Business Ventures: With his popularity, Dhawan could venture into business, leveraging his brand for endorsements or launching his own enterprises.

5. Social Initiatives: Known for his philanthropy, Dhawan might dedicate more time to charitable activities, focusing on education, sports, or health-related causes.

While Shikhar Dhawan is still active in cricket, his retirement will eventually mark the end of an era for Indian cricket, and fans will be keen to see how he continues to contribute to the sport and society beyond his playing days.