Shikhar Dhawan announces return to field two days after retirement, says 'cricket is an inseparable part of who I am, it will never...'

Former Indian opener Shikhar Dhawan has announced that he will play in the Legends League Cricket (LLC). The announcement came a couple of days after Dhawan posted a message for his fans. The 38-year-old will return to the field when LLC begins in September 2024. 
 

"My body is still conditioned for the demands of the game, and while I'm at ease with my decision, cricket is an inseparable part of who I am, it will never go out of me.
 

"I am eager to regroup with my cricketing friends and continue to entertain my fans as we create new memories together," said Dhawan in a statement.
 

Dhawan announced his retirement from all forms of international and domestic cricket. He will not play for Punjab Kings (PBKS) in the next edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL).

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Dhawan’s official statement on retirement

Dhawan on August 24 recorded a video message for his fans. He thanked his coaches, state and national cricket boards and his teammates in the video. 
 

"I always had one goal in mind that was to play for India and I achieved it thanks to a lot of people. First all of all my family, my childhood coach Tarak Sinha and Madan Sharma under their guidance, I learnt cricket. Then my entire team with whom I played for years, I got another family, fame and everyone’s love and support. As it’s said that in order to move ahead in the story you need to flip over the pages. Hence, I’m also doing that. I’m announcing my retirement from international and domestic cricket," the southpaw said in the video.

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“And now when I’m bidding adieu to my cricketing journey, I have the satisfaction that I played a lot for my country. I’m really thankful to the BCCI (Board of Control for Cricket in India) and DDCA (Delhi & District Cricket Association) for giving me this opportunity and all of my fans for their love and support. I just say this to myself that don’t be sad that you won’t play for your country again but always be happy that you played for your country. And it’s the biggest achievement for me that I played,” he added. 
 

The left-handed batter played his last competitive game in IPL 2024 against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH).
 

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