Shikhar Dhawan Shocked At Asian Games 2023 Exclusion, Aims To Make Comeback
Indian cricket team’s opening batsman and captain of Punjab Kings in the Indian Premier League, Shikhar Dhawan, expressed his surprise and disappointment upon not being selected for India’s roster in the upcoming Asian Games 2023. Despite this setback, Dhawan maintains a strong resolve to reclaim his spot in the national team soon.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) assembled a squad primarily composed of young talents for the Hangzhou Asian Games 2023, as the mainstay players focus on their preparations for the Cricket World Cup scheduled later in the year.
Despite being considered a potential leader for the secondary Indian team in the Asian Games held in China, Shikhar Dhawan, the 37-year-old left-handed cricketer, was not chosen by the selectors. Instead, Ruturaj Gaikwad was appointed as the captain, a role Dhawan had fulfilled until just 10 months ago. Dhawan admitted feeling a sense of surprise upon learning of his exclusion from the squad.
However, he quickly adopted a more understanding perspective, acknowledging the selectors’ distinct approach and the need to embrace it. Dhawan expressed his contentment with Gaikwad’s appointment as captain and conveyed his confidence in the abilities of the young players in the team. He conveyed these sentiments to PTI during an interview on Thursday.
As Shubman Gill partners with Rohit Sharma as the opening pair, it appears that the Indian team has transitioned away from relying on Dhawan. His role had been limited to a single format, until his exclusion from the One Day International (ODI) squad after the tour of Bangladesh in December 2022. Despite this, Dhawan, known for his perennial optimism, remains uncertain about his future prospects.
He emphasized his preparedness to seize any forthcoming opportunities that may come his way. Dhawan, a prominent contributor to India’s ODI batting lineup for the past decade, acknowledges that while he cannot predict what lies ahead, he remains open to making the most of any chances that come knocking.
“I will certainly be prepared for a comeback opportunity. This is why I prioritize maintaining my fitness, ensuring that I am ready whenever the chance arises. Regardless of whether the probability is low or high, even a one percent possibility is worth considering. I continue to derive enjoyment from training and playing the sport. These aspects are within my control. I hold deep respect for whatever decisions are taken,” remarked the left-handed cricketer. Despite his exclusion, he retains his central contract and invests significant time at the National Cricket Academy.
In the event that Shikhar Dhawan’s return to the Indian cricket team does not materialize, he has set his sights on achieving victory in the prestigious Indian Premier League (IPL) with his franchise, Punjab Kings. Dhawan is determined to contribute his best efforts towards helping Punjab Kings secure an IPL championship, a goal that he considers a significant aspiration for his cricketing journey.
Furthermore, Dhawan has conveyed his enthusiasm to participate in the Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 Trophy, a domestic T20 cricket competition in India. He aims to showcase his skills and make a meaningful impact in this tournament, further demonstrating his commitment to the game and his eagerness to stay competitive at the highest level of domestic cricket.
In addition to the T20 format, Dhawan also expressed a keen interest in participating in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, a prestigious 50-over domestic cricket tournament in India. This underlines his dedication to both short-format and longer-format cricket, as he seeks to perform well and contribute meaningfully to his team’s success in the 50-over format.
Dhawan’s approach of targeting these domestic tournaments before the IPL showcases his unwavering commitment to the sport and his determination to remain in top form. Whether it’s the fast-paced T20 matches or the more traditional 50-over format, Dhawan’s eagerness to compete highlights his enduring passion for cricket and his relentless pursuit of excellence.
“I haven’t engaged in discussions with any selectors regarding my future in cricket,” clarified Dhawan. He went on to mention his regular visits to the National Cricket Academy (NCA), emphasizing his genuine enjoyment of the facility and its top-notch amenities. Dhawan holds the NCA in high regard, recognizing its pivotal role in molding his cricketing journey and expressing his sincere gratitude for the support it has provided.
Dhawan’s focus remains steadfast on his upcoming commitments. He underlined his dedication to preparing for the Indian Premier League (IPL), acknowledging the importance of being in prime form for the franchise tournament. He intends to actively participate in the Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 Trophy, showcasing his skills and dedication in the fast-paced T20 format. Dhawan also expressed his aspiration to take part in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, illustrating his eagerness to contribute to his team’s success in the 50-over format as well.
Through his comments, Dhawan highlights his commitment to continuous improvement and his drive to excel in various cricketing arenas. His dedication to both domestic tournaments and franchise cricket showcases his unwavering passion for the sport and his unwavering pursuit of excellence.
