India Test and ODI captain Rohit Sharma paid tribute to Shikhar Dhawan on the latter’s retirement from international and domestic cricket. Sharma, who partnered Dhawan in the opening slots thanked the left-hander for making his life easier.
The duo of Sharma and Dhawan paired to score 5148 runs in international cricket – the fourth-highest among all opening pairs.
Rohit Sharma took to Instagram to share his message and called Dhawan the ‘ultimate jatt’ for his flamboyant persona in and out of the cricketing field. Sharma said that he cherished the lifelong memories created during their tenure with the Indian team.
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“From sharing rooms to sharing lifetime memories on the field. You always made my job easier from the other end. THE ULTIMATE JATT,” Rohit Sharma wrote on Instagram on Sunday.
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Shikhar Dhawan and Rohit Sharma, two of India’s most successful cricketers, formed a formidable opening partnership that played a significant role in the country’s cricketing success.
The duo, often referred to as one of the most successful ODI opening pairs, added 5148 runs in 115 innings together, averaging over 44.
Their partnership began in earnest during the 2013 Champions Trophy, where they put up a 127-run stand against South Africa in Cardiff.
Dhawan scored his maiden ODI century in that match, while Rohit contributed 65. This partnership marked the beginning of a long and successful association between the two openers.
One of their most notable performances came in the 2018 Asia Cup, where they added 210 runs against Pakistan in a Super Four match. Both Dhawan and Rohit scored centuries in that game, helping India win with nine wickets in hand and 63 balls remaining.
Their partnership was not limited to just one format. In Tests, Dhawan made a sensational debut against Australia in Mohali in 2013, scoring 187 runs. This innings laid the foundation for India’s six-wicket win in that match.
The duo’s chemistry on the field was evident in their ability to complement each other’s strengths. Dhawan, known for his aggressive style, often took the lead, while Rohit provided stability and flamboyance.
This balance allowed them to build strong foundations for the Indian team, making them a formidable force in international cricket.
Their partnership was also marked by consistency and adaptability. They performed well in various conditions, from the Champions Trophy in England to the Asia Cup in Dubai. Their ability to adjust to different pitches and oppositions made them a reliable opening pair for the Indian team.
The partnership between Dhawan and Rohit was not just about runs; it was also about the trust and understanding they developed over the years.
They were each other’s support system, often helping the other through difficult periods in the game. This bond was evident in their body language and communication on the field, which added to their success.
