An important chapter in Indian cricketer Rishi Dhawan’s career has come to an end with his poignant statement that he will be retiring from limited-overs cricket in India. Shortly after the Vijay Hazare Trophy group stage ended, Dhawan posted the announcement on social media, thanking everyone for a twenty-year career.
A Memorable Career
In the history of cricket in Himachal Pradesh, Rishi Dhawan was a key figure. The squad won their first domestic championship in the 2021–2022 Vijay Hazare Trophy under his direction. Due to his outstanding effort in that competition, Dhawan finished as the team’s second-highest run scorer and wicket-taker, solidifying his reputation as one of the state’s most important players.
In 2016, Dhawan played for India in three One-Day Internationals (ODIs) and one Twenty20 International. Despite being short, his time playing international cricket demonstrated his versatility with both bat and ball.
The Statement of Retirement
Dhawan considered the influence cricket had on his life before announcing his choice on social media:
“I would want to announce my retirement from Indian cricket (limited overs), even though I have no regrets. For the past 20 years, this sport has shaped my life. I shall always cherish the incalculable joy and many memories this game has brought me.
Dhawan expressed his appreciation to the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association (HPCA), the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), and the IPL teams he played for, such as the Kolkata Knight Riders, Mumbai Indians, and Punjab Kings.
Maintaining Your First-Class Cricket Career
Dhawan stated that he intends to continue playing first-class cricket for Himachal Pradesh even if he is retiring from white-ball cricket. Having played in all five of his state’s games thus far, he has been an active player in the current Ranji Trophy season.
Taking Stock of a Lowly Journey
Dhawan used the occasion to thank his supporters over the course of his career.
From modest beginnings to serving my country on the biggest platforms, it has been an unfathomable honor. My passion and the reason I get out of bed in the morning is cricket. I want to express my gratitude to all of my teammates, coaches, mentors, and support personnel for their invaluable efforts in helping me become the person I am today.
Dhawan took one wicket and amassed 12 runs in two innings throughout his three ODI matches. He got a wicket and was undefeated by one run in his only Twenty20 International. Even if his international stats might not fully represent his abilities, he still has a big influence on domestic cricket.
A new chapter in Rishi Dhawan’s career has begun with his decision to retire from limited-overs cricket. Both teammates and supporters will treasure the legacy he leaves behind in the game’s shorter formats while he continues to make contributions to first-class cricket.
