India star announces shock retirement after BGT debacle

Published - 06 Jan 2025, 10:43 AM | Updated - 06 Jan 2025, 10:46 AM

Image Credits: Getty Images

India all-rounder Rishi Dhawan announced his retirement from the white-ball formats of Indian cricket on Sunday, January 5. Rishi Dhawan's retirement announcement came after the Himachal Pradesh team was eliminated from the group phase in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy 2024-25.

Dhawan's final match was against Andhra in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, where he took two wickets and scored an unbeaten 45* (42) in an eight-wicket victory. Earlier, he had a less impressive run in the 2024-25 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, where he managed only 89 runs from five innings and took just two wickets.

Rishi Dhawan Made His India Debut Under MS Dhoni's Captaincy

The 34-year-old made his international debut under MS Dhoni's captaincy during India's tour of Australia in 2016. He played three ODIs and one T20I. Dhawan scored 12 runs in three ODIs and took one wicket. Dhawan made his T20I debut against Zimbabwe in the same year, where he recorded 1/42 in four overs.

Dhawan played 39 IPL matches between 2013 and 2024, representing Mumbai Indians and Punjab Kings. The all-rounder concluded his IPL career with 210 runs and 25 wickets. He scored 4,824 runs from 98 matches and took 186 wickets in List-A cricket. Dhawan scored 1,740 runs from 135 T20s and took 118 wickets.

With a Heavy Heart, Even Though I Have No Regrets - Rishi Dhawan

Rishi Dhawan took to his official social media to announce his decision, stating that while he has no regrets, stepping away from Indian cricket was difficult. He added that the sport has defined his life, bringing him immense joy and lasting memories that he will always cherish.

“It’s with a heavy heart, even though I have no regrets, that I’d like to announce my retirement from Indian cricket. It’s a sport that has defined my life for the past 20 years. This game has given me immeasurable joy and countless memories that will always stay very close to my heart,” Rishi wrote in a post on Instagram.

I Want to Take a Moment to Show My Gratitude - Rishi Dhawan

Dhawan expressed his gratitude to the BCCI, Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association, and various IPL franchises for the opportunities. He also thanked his coaches, mentors, teammates, and support staff for shaping his career and life.

“I want to take a moment to show my gratitude towards the opportunities that were given to me by the Board of Control of Cricket in India , Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association , Punjab Kings, Mumbai Indians and Kolkata Knight Riders,” the post added.

"From humble beginnings to representing my nation on the grandest stages, it has been a privilege. Cricket has been my passion, and my reason for waking up every morning. I would like to thank all of my coaches, mentors, teammates, and support staff for the valuable contributions you have made to shaping me into the person I am today."

"As I embark on this transitional chapter in my life, I am filled with excitement and anticipation. There are countless challenges to conquer, new dreams to pursue, and new opportunities to embrace. I am confident that the skills and values instilled in me by cricket will guide me in this next phase."