In an emotional tribute that resonated deeply across the cricketing world, Indian cricket captain Rohit Sharma bid a heartwarming farewell to his former opening partner Shikhar Dhawan. The long-standing camaraderie between the two was neatly encapsulated in a series of throwback pictures shared by Rohit on the social media platform ‘X’, formerly known as Twitter. The photos, adorned with a touching caption, were a testament to the enduring bond and mutual respect shared by these two cricketing stalwarts.
“From sharing rooms to sharing lifetime memories on the field. You always made my job easier from the other end. THE ULTIMATE JATT,” Rohit wrote, invoking nostalgia and celebration in equal measure.
Shikhar Dhawan, affectionately known as ‘Gabbar’ to cricket fans all around the world, announced his retirement from all forms of international and domestic cricket on Saturday, August 24. This significant decision marked the end of a glorious and illustrious playing career for India, spanning over a decade. Dhawan’s last appearance for the Indian team was in a Test match against Bangladesh in December 2022, a fitting curtain call to a highly decorated career.
The partnership between Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan has been one of the most memorable in the history of Indian cricket. Their synergy and understanding on the pitch were unparalleled, resulting in a remarkable 115 innings together in One Day Internationals (ODIs). In this period, they amassed a staggering 5148 runs at a remarkable average of 45.55 runs per innings. Their consistency and ability to deliver under pressure placed them as the fourth-most successful opening pair in the annals of ODI cricket. They stand just behind the legendary Indian duo of Sourav Ganguly and Sachin Tendulkar, Australia’s dynamic pair of Matthew Hayden and Adam Gilchrist, and the West Indies’ iconic combination of Gordon Greenidge and Desmond Haynes.
Their chemistry wasn’t confined to ODIs alone. The Rohit-Dhawan duo also had an impressive run in Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is), a format that demands quick thinking and adaptability. The pair opened together in 52 innings for India in T20Is, accumulating 1743 runs.
. Their partnership included four-century stands and seven half-century stands. In the T20I circuit, they rank fourth in terms of successful partnerships, trailing behind Pakistan’s Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan, Ireland’s Andy Balbirnie and Paul Stirling, and the Indian pair of KL Rahul and Rohit Sharma himself.
Shikhar Dhawan’s career is illustrious not just for the records but for the charisma and flamboyance he brought to the field. Known for his aggressive batting style and celebratory demeanor, Dhawan’s presence on the field was unmistakably magnetic. He played pivotal roles in multiple ICC tournaments, consistently showcasing his ability to perform on the biggest stages. Dhawan was the top scorer in the ICC Champions Trophy in 2013 and 2017 and provided solid starts in numerous ICC World Cups, cementing his reputation as a reliable top-order batsman for India.
The reaction to Dhawan’s retirement brought a wave of tributes from fans, peers, and cricketing legends alike. Many took to social media to express their gratitude and admiration for a player who has given so much to the sport. His left-handed mastery and ability to take on the best bowlers in the world will be sorely missed on the international stage.
Beyond the numbers and records, it is the stories and the shared moments that will define Rohit and Dhawan’s partnership. Whether it was sharing a laugh between overs or strategizing to dismantle opposition bowlers, the duo’s understanding went beyond mere stats. Their on-field relationship was a blend of Rohit’s calculated assault and Dhawan’s aggressive stroke play, a synergy that made them one of the deadliest opening pairs in world cricket.
As the cricketing world bids adieu to Shikhar Dhawan, it’s a time for reflection and celebration of his immense contribution to the game. For Rohit Sharma, Dhawan was more than just a partner on the field; he was a friend and a confidant. The heartfelt tribute from Rohit encapsulates this sentiment, celebrating the highs, lows, and the countless moments that have defined their journey together.
In conclusion, while Shikhar Dhawan hangs up his boots, the legacy of ‘The Ultimate Jatt’ will continue to inspire young cricketers. His partnership with Rohit Sharma will be remembered as one of the golden chapters in the rich history of Indian cricket, a story of friendship, trust, and unparalleled cricketing brilliance.
