Virat Kohli pens heartfelt note for Shikhar Dhawan, calls him ‘one of India’s most dependable openers’

Veteran India batter Virat Kohli penned a heartfelt note for his former Delhi and India teammate, Shikhar Dhawan, who announced his retirement on Saturday (Aug24). Virat and Shikhar have made countless memories on the field, with several match-winning stands across formats. Taking to his social media handle X, Virat posted a warm and cordial message for Dhawan, calling him ‘one of India’s most dependable openers.’

Virat said Shikhar’s passion for the game, his sportsman spirit, and above all, his trademark smile were his USP and will be missed, but his legacy stays on.

ALSO READ:Joe Root closes gap with Chanderpaul, Sachin for THIS record after anchoring England home in 1st Test vs SL

Add WION as a Preferred Source

“Shikhar @SDhawan25 from your fearless debut to becoming one of India's most dependable openers, you've given us countless memories to cherish. Your passion for the game, your sportsmanship and your trademark smile will be missed, but your legacy lives on. Thank you for the memories, unforgettable performances and always leading with your heart. Wishing you the best in your next innings, off the field Gabbar!” Kohli wrote.

Meanwhile, Kohli and Dhawan have had great partnerships on the field, with the pair helping India win on several occasions. Having known each other from their junior-level days, Shikhar and Virat formed a formidable top three in the past decade alongside now-India captain Rohit Sharma.

While Virat is regarded widely as the best batter of his era, Dhawan was India’s most prolific run-scorer in white-ball cricket, especially during the 50-over ICC events (ODI World and Champions Trophy).Of the players who have scored more than 1000 runs in these two tournaments, Dhawan has the highest average, going past 65.

Known for his attacking style of play upfront, Dhawan made his ODI and Test debuts against Australia. Though he got out early on his One-Day debut, Dhawan slammed a brilliant 187 on his Test debut in Mohali – a then highest-score by an Indian.

Besides, Dhawan is also the only Indian batter to score a hundred in his 100th ODI match, scoring 109 against South Africa in Johannesburg in 2018.

Dhawan has scored 10,867 international runs in 269 matches.

Virat back for home season

Virat Kohli last played the away ODI series against Sri Lanka, which India lost 0-2, and will now appear for the two Tests against Bangladesh at home starting September 19 in Chennai.

Since he announced his T20I retirement following the T20 World Cup win in the Americas, Virat is scheduled to play all ten Tests till January next year, including three against New Zealand at home and five against Australia Down Under.

(With inputs from agencies)