The Asian Age

It is an eye- opener when you get dropped: Dhawan

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Mumbai, June 3: Shikhar Dhawan has been one of the key mainstays in Team India for quite some time now. Not only the limited overs format but the Delhi batsman has proved his nonchalanc­e even in the longest format.

With an intense year of cricketing action approachin­g, the swashbuckl­ing left- hander will once again be a key for Virat Kohli- led India during their upcoming assignment­s. However, things have not always been hunky dory for the southpaw who has witnessed several ups and downs in his career. Having made his internatio­nal debut against Australia in October 2010, the hard- hitting batsman was soon shown the door as he underwent a lean patch. After overcoming fitness issues, he made a stunning comeback to seal his place in the national team, with selectors opting to choose him over Delhi teammate Gautam Gambhir. Recently, in a chat show, Dhawan revealed how his axing made him aware about the other aspects in his life along with stating that his life does not always revolve around cricket. “If I’m destined to play for the national team then the opportunit­y will come my way. It is an eye- opener when you get dropped from the team. When I was benched I realised that my life does not revolve only around cricket, I have different aspects as well. Family is the most important aspect to my life. I don’t think much. My main goal in my life is to remain happy and it is very important for me to stay like that,” Dhawan said.

The ‘ Gabbar’ of Indian cricket also opened up on his unique kabaddi- style celebratio­n. “This happened in Australia when I took Shane Watson’s catch. I like to watch kabaddi, it’s a manly sport. I enjoy it and celebrate taking catches very sincerely. People also look at me these days and do the celebratio­n whenever I’m fielding near the boundary,” he added.

During the recentlyco­ncluded IPL season, Dhawan finished as the second highest run- getter for runners- up Sunrisers Hyderabad.

 ??  ?? Shikhar Dhawan
Shikhar Dhawan

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