On August 24, 2024, Shikhar Dhawan, one of India’s top opening batters, retired from domestic and international cricket. Last seen in the Indian jersey in December 2022, Dhawan leaves behind a stellar career, marked by key contributions in Tests, ODIs, and T20Is.
Known for his aggressive batting, Dhawan scored 1,759 runs in T20Is, averaging 27.92 with 11 fifties in 66 innings.
As he retires, we look back at his top five T20I innings that highlight his ability to dominate and anchor the game.
5. 74 vs Ireland, June 27, 2018, Dublin
In the opening T20I against Ireland in Dublin, Shikhar Dhawan scored an important 74 runs off 45 balls, including five fours and five sixes. His effort was key in India posting a strong total of 208/5. Ireland, in response, could only reach 132/9 in their 20 overs, leading to a 76-run win for India. Dhawan’s innings, with a strike rate of 164.44, played a crucial role in securing this decisive victory for India.
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4. 76 vs Australia, November 21, 2018, Brisbane
In the first T20I in Brisbane against Australia, Shikhar Dhawan hit 76 from 42 balls, with 10 fours and 2 sixes. He played at a strike rate of 180.95, almost leading India to chase down the target of 174. However, due to rain affecting the match, India lost by 4 runs under the DLS method.
3. 80 vs New Zealand, November 1, 2017, Delhi
In the first T20I against New Zealand, Shikhar Dhawan made 80 runs from 52 balls, including 10 boundaries and two sixes. With a strike rate of 153.84, he played a key role in setting a target of 202/3. India won the match comfortably by 53 runs, as New Zealand could only score 149/8. Dhawan’s performance, where he both anchored the innings and added significantly to the total, was a standout feature of the game.
2. 90 vs Sri Lanka, March 6, 2018, Colombo
In the Nidahas Trophy, Shikhar Dhawan scored 90 runs off 49 balls against Sri Lanka in Colombo. He hit six fours and six sixes, achieving a striking rate of 183.67. Despite his excellent performance, India couldn’t defend their total of 174. Sri Lanka won by five wickets with nine balls left. Nonetheless, this innings is one of Dhawan’s most memorable T20I performances for India.
1. 92 vs West Indies, November 11, 2018, Chennai
In the third T20I in Chennai against the West Indies, Shikhar Dhawan dazzled with a brilliant 92 off 62 balls. His innings included 10 fours and 2 sixes, which played a crucial role in reaching the target of 182. India clinched victory by six wickets on the final ball, thanks to Dhawan’s powerful and reliable batting.
This innings is Dhawan’s highest score in his T20I career for India.
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