“Your fearless batting and infectious smile inspire millions” - Cricket fraternity wishes Shikhar Dhawan on his 39th birthday
Shikhar Dhawan, the ‘Gabbar’ of Indian cricket, is celebrating his 39th birthday on Thursday, December 5. Numerous members of the cricket fraternity have taken to social media to wish the southpaw on his special day.
Former Indian cricketer Suresh Raina took to X to share a heartfelt message for Shikhar Dhawan, writing:
“To the man who brings flair and fun to the pitch, Happy Birthday Brother, @SDhawan25. Your fearless batting and infectious smile inspire millions. Have a smashing year ahead.”
Meanwhile, current Indian head coach Gautam Gambhir also posted a message on X, writing:
“A very happy birthday to the happiest soul of the field! Keep spreading joy brother!”
Former spinner Harbhajan Singh shared:
Dhawan’s former teammates, including Yuvraj Singh, Umesh Yadav, and Irfan Pathan, took to Instagram Stories to wish the southpaw on his birthday.
Meanwhile, Dhawan announced his retirement from international cricket on August 24, 2024, but continues to play in various leagues. The left-hander represented the Gujarat Greats in the 2024 Legends League Cricket.
Most recently, on December 4, he scored an unbeaten 72 off 51 balls for Karnali Yaks in the Nepal Premier League, marking his maiden fifty in the tournament.
Shikhar Dhawan represented India in 269 games across formats
Shikhar Dhawan made his debut for India in an ODI against Australia in 2010 and went on to play 167 matches in the format. He scored 6,793 runs at an average of 44.11, including 39 half-centuries and 17 centuries.
Dhawan was a key member of the team that won the 2013 Champions Trophy, finishing as the top scorer with 363 runs in five matches.
Meanwhile, the opening batter made his Test debut in 2013 against Australia, scoring a brilliant 187 off 174 balls. Over the course of his career, he played 34 Test matches, amassing 2,315 runs, including five fifties and seven centuries. In addition, Dhawan featured in 68 T20Is, scoring 1,759 runs, with 11 half-centuries to his name.