Shikhar Dhawan, the veteran Indian opener, has sparked retirement rumors with his recent comments ahead of the upcoming IPL 2025 auction. Dhawan’s underwhelming performance and injury troubles in IPL 2024 raise questions about his future in the tournament.
Dismal IPL 2024 for Shikhar Dhawan and Punjab Kings
Shikhar Dhawan’s IPL 2024 campaign was marred by a shoulder injury and a string of poor scores. He only managed to play five matches for the Punjab Kings, who finished a disappointing ninth in the league table.
This came after the Kings had placed their faith in Dhawan by making him their captain for the season.
Retirement on horizon for Shikhar Dhawan?
In a recent interview, Shikhar Dhawan hinted at a possible transition away from cricket. He spoke of being “at a stage where cricket will come to a rest” and a “new chapter” beginning in his life. These comments, coupled with his advancing age (38), suggest that retirement could be on the cards for Dhawan.
He told ANI: “I am also going through a transition ‘Jahan Meri Cricket Vishram Pe Aayegi’ and a new chapter in my life will start. You only have a certain age till you can play. It could be one year more, two years more, or xyz for me….”
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Injury Woes and Recovery
Dhawan’s injury and subsequent struggle to regain full fitness further complicate his future in the IPL. He acknowledges that he is still recovering and hasn’t reached 100% yet. This raises concerns about his ability to perform at the highest level in a high-pressure tournament like the IPL.
“Unfortunately, I got injured this IPL season and could not play for Punjab except for 4-5 matches. It takes time to recover. I am still healing. I have not recovered 100 per cent yet,” Dhawan added.
Decorated IPL Career for Shikhar Dhawan
Despite the recent struggles, Shikhar Dhawan boasts a decorated IPL career. He is the second-highest run scorer in IPL history, with over 6,700 runs to his name. His success with the Delhi Capitals (DC) is well documented, and he was even the leading run scorer for the Punjab Kings in the 2022 season.
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Uncertain Future with PBKS
With the IPL 2025 auction approaching, it remains unclear whether the Punjab Kings will retain Dhawan’s services. His recent form, injury concerns, and retirement hints cast doubt on his participation in the upcoming season. Only time will tell whether Dhawan will continue to grace the IPL stage or step away to pursue a new chapter in his life.
