New Delhi [India]: Former Indian opener Shikhar Dhawan shared heartfelt anecdotes about the struggles he faced during the early days of his cricketing journey while interacting with underprivileged children at an event organized by the Shikhar Dhawan Foundation.
During the session, Dhawan recounted his humble beginnings:
“I started playing at a young age for a club, practiced for a year, and got to play a tournament after a year,” he said, as per a press release.
He revealed how his initial days in cricket involved not only rigorous practice but also performing menial tasks like rolling pitches, bringing tea for coaches, and enduring long hours in the sun just to get a few minutes to bat. These sacrifices and hard work shaped his journey to becoming an internationally celebrated cricketer.
Event Highlights
The December 2024 event saw Dhawan interacting with young cricketers from various NGOs. He engaged in a Q&A session, shared motivational stories, and distributed gifts. Through his foundation, Dhawan continues to support underprivileged children by offering material assistance and inspiring them with his story of perseverance.
Career Highlights
At 38, Dhawan recently announced his retirement via Instagram, bringing an illustrious cricketing career to a close. Known for his aggressive batting and consistency, Dhawan’s career spanned all formats:
- ODIs: Played 167 matches, scoring 6,793 runs at an average of 44.1, including 17 centuries and 39 fifties.
- Tests: Accumulated 2,315 runs in 34 matches at an average of 40.6, with 7 centuries and 5 half-centuries, forming memorable partnerships with Murali Vijay.
- T20Is: Scored 1,759 runs in 68 matches at an average of 27.9, with 11 fifties.
- Domestic Circuit: Played 122 First-Class matches, amassing 8,499 runs at an average of 44.26, including 25 centuries and 29 fifties.
Dhawan’s journey from humble beginnings to cricket stardom remains an inspiring testament to hard work and determination. Through his foundation, he continues to give back to the community, empowering the next generation of cricketers.