Virat Kohli Pens Emotional Note On Shikhar Dhawan After India Opener’s Retirement, Says ‘Yours Trademark Smile Will Be Missed’

New Delhi: Former India captain Virat Kohli penned an emotional for ex-teammate Shikhar Dhawan after the latter’s retirement on Saturday from all forms of cricket. Both Kohli and Dhawan have been playing cricket together for Delhi from the age-group tournaments before sharing the same dressing room in the Indian national team.

Describing Dhawan as one of the India’s most dependable openers, Kohli stated his trademark smile would e missed on the cricket field. “Shikhar @SDhawan25 from your fearless debut to becoming one of India’s most dependable openers, you’ve given us countless memories to cherish,” Kohli wrote on X.

“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!” he added.

Earlier on Saturday morning, Dhawan announced his retirement from all forms of cricket, two years after he last donned the national jersey. The 38-year-old said he leaves the scene a content man, having represented the national team in all three formats since making his international debut in 2010 in an ODI against Australia in Visakhapatnam.

“As I close this chapter of my cricketing journey, I carry with me countless memories and gratitude. Thank you for the love and support! Jai Hind!,” Dhawan said in a post on ‘X’. “It’s important to turn the page to move forward in life and that’s why I am announcing my retirement from international and domestic cricket. I am leaving with peace in my heart that I played so long for India,” he added. Dhawan appeared in 34 Tests, 167 ODIs and 68 T20Is for India.

His best came in the 50-over format in which he amassed 6793 runs at an average of 44.11. He averaged 40.61 for his 2315 Test runs. On the other hand, with no cricket at the moment, Kohli is spending time with his family in London.