Indian all-rounder Rishi Dhawan announced his retirement from the white-ball format of Indian cricket on Sunday, January 5. Rishi Dhawan’s retirement announcement comes after the Himachal Pradesh team was eliminated from the group stage of the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy 2024-25.
Dhawan’s last match was against Andhra in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, where he took two wickets and scored an unbeaten 45* (42) in an eight-wicket win. Earlier, he had a less impressive run in the 2024-25 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, where he managed just 89 runs from five innings and claimed just two wickets.
Rishi Dhawan made his India debut under MS Dhoni
The 34-year-old made his international debut under MS Dhoni 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 took 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 4824 runs from 98 matches and took 186 wickets in List-A cricket. Dhawan scored 1740 runs from 135 T20s and took 118 wickets.
Heavy hearted, though I have no regrets – Rishi Dhawan
Rishi Dhawan took to his official social media to announce his decision, saying that it was difficult for him, although he has no regrets, to step away from Indian cricket. He added that sports defined his life, brought him immense joy and lasting memories that he will always cherish.
“It is with a heavy heart, although I have no regrets at all, that I wish to announce my retirement from Indian cricket. It is the sport that has defined my life for the last 20 years. This game has given me immense joy and countless memories that will always remain in my heart,” Rishi wrote in an Instagram post.
I want to take a moment to show my gratitude – Rishi Dhawan
Dhawan expressed his gratitude to BCCI, Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association and various IPL franchises for the opportunities provided. He also thanked his coaches, mentors, teammates and support staff for shaping his career and life.
“I want to take this moment to show my appreciation for the opportunities provided to me by the Board of Control for 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 biggest stages, it has been my privilege. Cricket has been my passion and the reason I wake up every morning. I would like to thank all my coaches, mentors, teammates and support staff for your valuable contribution to make me you shape 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 that cricket has instilled in me will guide me through this to the next stage.”
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