Shikhar Dhawan bids farewell to cricket without a final match: Recalling Indian legends who also missed out

Shikhar Dhawan, one of India's finest opening batsmen, announced his retirement from cricket through an emotional video on social media. Over his 13-year international career, Dhawan played 34 Tests, 167 ODIs, and 68 T20Is, amassing 2,315, 6,793, and 1,579 runs respectively across the three formats.

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However, Dhawan did not receive the ceremonial farewell match many believe he deserved. However, he is not the only one as there are these other legends who also left international cricket without playing their final game.

Shikhar Dhawan:

Known for his aggressive batting style, the opening batter has been a key figure in the Indian cricket team, especially in ODIs. Nicknamed 'Gabbar', Dhawan played his last international match in 2023 and announced his retirement on August 24, 2024. Despite his significant contributions, particularly in the 2013 Champions Trophy, a farewell match for Dhawan, like many before him, remains a missed opportunity.

MS Dhoni:

The celebrated captain, known for his calm demeanour and strategic brilliance, led India to historic victories in the 2007 T20 World Cup and the 2011 ODI World Cup. His last international appearance was in the 2019 World Cup semi-final against New Zealand, but he announced his retirement a year later (August 15, 2020), leaving fans without the chance to give him a proper farewell. However, there is still hope, as he continues to play in the Indian Premier League (IPL) for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK), offering fans a potential opportunity to bid him a proper farewell.

Suresh Raina:

The man played a crucial role in many of India's victories. His last international match was in 2018 as despite consistent performances, he was also denied a farewell match. His sudden departure from international cricket left fans and teammates longing for one final game to celebrate his remarkable journey. The cricketer announced his decision on August 15, 2020, shortly after MS Dhoni had retired. 

Yuvraj Singh:

The hero of the 2011 World Cup also didn't receive a farewell game. Yuvraj Singh's career was defined by his courageous battle against cancer and his remarkable comeback, but his final international appearance came in 2017 and later on June 10, 2019, Yuvraj announced his retirement from all forms of International cricket. Despite his significant contributions, including being named Player of the Tournament in 2011, Yuvraj's departure was as quiet as it was unexpected.

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