Things haven't gone according to plan for Rohit Sharma & Co. as India unexpectadly crashed out against the Kiwis in the three-match Test series and were severly jolted to its core. The devastating series defeat has caused a crisis like situation to develop in the Indian camp. As the nation and it's fans try to come in terms with the ongoing situation, all eyes will be on Rohit and how he pulls his side out of misery as they prepare to face the battle-hardened Australians in the upcoming BGT tour down under.

With the WTC qualification chances also in jeopardy, there are moutning concerns than hopes as to how India can get their campaign back on track in this ongoing WTC cycle. Despite enduring such diificulties, former Indian opener Shikhar Dhawan has utmost belief in Rohit's ability to lead the Indian side to glory in the fourthcoming BGT tour.     

Dhawan's special relationship with Rohit and why he remains hopeful

Rohit and Dhawan both have a fair share of extraordinary batting memories. The duo formed one of the most deadliest opening pairs in Indian cricket history. Dhawan vividly remembers the partnership he had with Rohit in one of the league matches of the 2013 Champions Trophy edition against South Africa. Dhawan went on to smash a century in that match on a challenging seaming wicket and Rohit too played his role of a pinch-hitter at the top shamshing eight fours and one six. That partnership helped India set the tone for a gigantic first innings total and as a result, India emerged victorious in that game by a decisive margin of 26 runs.  

Dhawan has observed Rohit a lot closely during his playing days and he remains fully optimistic of his true capabilities. The retired Indian batter believes that the Indian skipper will come good and peak just when his side requires him to deliver the much needed goods. India have previously triumphed in the earlier two BGT editions in Australia. Virat was the first Indian captain to lead India to their first-ever Test series win on Aussie soil in 2018-19 while India, under Rahane's leadership went on to win the 2020-21 series by 2-1. Now it is time for Rohit Sharma and team to register the third consecetive BGT series win on the trot. 

Punjab Kings’ captain Shikhar Dhawan is facing a shoulder injury, confirmed by coach Sanjay Bangar. This setback could keep him out of action for at least a week, possibly longer. As a result, Dhawan might miss two upcoming IPL 2024 matches: against Mumbai Indians on April 18 and Gujarat Titans on April 21, both scheduled at home in Mullanpur.

In the absence of Dhawan, Sam Curran took charge during the toss for Punjab Kings, leading to some confusion as Jitesh Sharma had represented the team during the captains’ conference in Chennai earlier in the season.

“He’s having a shoulder injury…”

“So he is likely to be out for at least a couple of days, I would say,” Bangar said. “Having an experienced opener, somebody like Shikhar, who has experience of playing on such wickets, becomes extremely crucial [for the team].

“We have to wait and see how he responds to the treatment. At the moment, it seems that he could be out of action for at least seven-ten days.”

“No, no, he [Jitesh] wasn’t the designated vice-captain,” Bangar added. “The impression could have been because he attended the captains’ seminar, or meeting, at the start of the IPL. But the thought was always that… because Sam has led the team in the previous year as well; he was late to arrive from UK and he wanted to have a few [training] sessions, that’s the reason we couldn’t send him to Chennai. Hence Jitesh was sent, because the directive was that a player has to attend.

“It wasn’t the case that Jitesh was the stand-in captain. We were very clear in our mind that if at all there had to be an opening, Sam Curran will be taking over and do the job as the captain.”

Although Dhawan’s performance with the bat hasn’t been exceptional in IPL 2024, he remains Punjab Kings’ highest run-scorer with 152 runs from five innings, averaging 30.40 with a strike rate of 125.61. However, the team’s struggles at the top of the order have contributed significantly to their four losses in six games, leaving them at the eighth spot on the table.

Dhawan’s absence creates void in Punjab Kings

Dhawan’s opening partner, Jonny Bairstow, has also faced challenges, managing only 96 runs in six innings, while Prabhsimran Singh and Jitesh Sharma have struggled for consistency and impact with 119 and 106 runs respectively in six innings each.

Bangar said, “Certainly is a cause for concern that the top order is not making enough runs for us.” He added, “They are trying hard – I am not saying that they are not applying themselves – but it’s just not coming. Low-scoring games, especially at Mullanpur, the way the wicket is… that also has a factor. Because if you see, some of the scores have been pretty low.

“All the three games that we have played here, in the first six overs, with the new ball, the wicket tends to just jag a little bit, and uneven bounce as well. So maybe that is also a contributing factor because, not only us, the visiting teams and their top order are facing issues.”

See Also: IPL 2024: MS Dhoni just 25 runs away to create CSK vs MI IPL history

In their recent match, with Dhawan sidelined, Punjab Kings experimented with Atharva Taide at the top, who scored 15 runs in 12 balls. Despite their efforts, the team posted a total of 147 for 8 against Rajasthan Royals, ending up on the losing side in a low-scoring game at Mullanpur.

The Punjab Kings faced an unexpected turn of events just before their crucial IPL match against the Rajasthan Royals in Mullanpur, Chandigarh. Regular captain Shikhar Dhawan was notably absent during the pre-match formalities.

Toss Update: Rajasthan Royals win the toss and elect to bowl against Punjab Kings.

Details of the Toss

In a surprising development, all-rounder Sam Curran represented Punjab Kings at the toss, standing opposite Rajasthan Royals’ captain Sanju Samson. The Royals won the toss and elected to field first, setting the stage for an intriguing encounter.

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Reason Behind Dhawan’s Absence

Addressing the curious spectators and commentators, Sam Curran disclosed that Shikhar Dhawan had sustained a minor injury, which sidelined him for the game. “Shikhar picked up a niggle, that’s why I’m here,” explained Curran during the toss interview.

Impact on Team Strategy

The absence of Dhawan prompted several adjustments within the PBKS lineup. “We would have bowled first as well, but now we need to focus on putting a competitive score on the board,” Curran remarked. The team saw Atharva Taide stepping in for Dhawan, with Liam Livingstone making a return, enhancing the team’s batting depth.

Rajasthan Royals Team Composition

Rajasthan Royals were not without their challenges. Captain Sanju Samson revealed that key players Jos Buttler and Ravichandran Ashwin were also sidelined due to health issues. Jos (Buttler) isn’t 100% fit and R Ashwin is having a niggle. Their spots were filled by Rovman Powell and Tanush Kotian, aiming to maintain the team’s competitive edge.

Game Strategy

Samson expressed a clear focus on process over outcome. “Our goal is to focus on the process, despite the challenges posed by missing key players,” he stated, setting a resilient tone for his team.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) has been a cornerstone of cricketing excellence since its inception in 2008. Over the years, this money-rich T20 franchise league has not only showcased the talents of budding cricketers but also provided a platform for seasoned veterans to extend their careers.

As the 2024 edition of the IPL approaches, speculation mounts about the potential swansongs of celebrated players who have graced the tournament with their brilliance. Now, for many players, this IPL 2024 might be the last time they are featuring in this cash-rich league. Take a look at 5 players who might not feature in the next IPL season.

MS Dhoni (Chennai Super Kings)

Despite advancing age and concerns about fitness, MS Dhoni has defied expectations with his enduring presence in the IPL. After winning his fifth IPL title in 2023, Dhoni’s future in the tournament remains uncertain as he approaches the age of 43.

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After winning his fifth IPL in 2023, many expected him to announce his retirement, seeing he was not the same player throughout the season, but Dhoni made no such announcement. Speculations abound that IPL 2024 might mark Dhoni’s final hurrah, with fans bracing themselves for the possibility of bidding farewell to the iconic former Indian captain. 

Dhoni’s contributions to Chennai Super Kings and his indelible impact on the league make his potential retirement a momentous event in IPL history. This year, he handed over the captaincy of CSK to Ruturaj Gaikwad. In July 2024, MS Dhoni will be 43. Being a wicket-keeper and one about to reach 43, Dhoni’s appearance in the 2025 season looks improbable.

Amit Mishra (Lucknow SuperGiants)

Amit Mishra, the seasoned spinner, made a remarkable comeback to the IPL in 2023 at the age of 40, signing with the Lucknow Super Giants. With 166 wickets in 154 IPL games, Mishra’s illustrious career has been characterized by his guile and mastery over spin bowling.

The spinner stood out with his crafty bowling and wicket-taking prowess and has been in contention for the prestigious purple cap for more seasons than not during his long spell in the T20 league. However, citing his advanced age, he could be on his last legs as well.

Renowned as the “Hat-trick Man,” Mishra etched his name in IPL history by claiming three hat-tricks in the 2008, 2011, and 2012 seasons. His ability to outsmart batters with his crafty bowling has been instrumental in his team’s success over the years.

David Warner (Delhi Capitals)

David Warner, the highest-scoring overseas batter in IPL history, could be nearing the twilight of his IPL career. With a string of stellar performances and a cult following in the Indian subcontinent, Warner’s potential retirement would mark the end of an era in T20 cricket.

The maverick opener is likely to play his final T20 World Cup this year, and the southpaw, who has created a cult following in the Indian subcontinent with his brilliant batting and off-the-field antics, could also be inching towards retirement from the IPL.

As Warner prepares to play his final T20 World Cup, speculation mounts about his retirement from the IPL. With close to 6400 runs to his name, Warner’s legacy as one of the IPL’s most iconic batters is firmly established.

Ishant Sharma (Delhi Capitals)

Veteran Indian pacer Ishant Sharma, who missed the 2022 season, returned to the IPL in 2023 with Delhi Capitals. 35 years old, Sharma acknowledges that IPL 2024 could be his final season, marking the end of a distinguished career.

Ishant made his IPL debut in 2008. He has played 105 matches to date in his IPL career, and he took 86 wickets, with an average of 35.24, conceding nearly 8.20 runs per over with a best individual figure of 5/12. In the IPL Auction 2024, the Delhi franchise acquired the services of Ishant Sharma for Rs 50.00 Lac. The 35-year-old is not part of the Indian team anymore, and he also knows that this could be his last season in the IPL.

Shikhar Dhawan (Punjab Kings)

Shikhar Dhawan, the veteran Indian opener, will be playing his 17th straight season in the IPL. Leading Punjab Kings in IPL 2024, Dhawan’s illustrious career may be nearing its conclusion. Retirement looms on the horizon, and with his growing age, there are very few chances that he will continue playing in 2025.

PBKS bought him in a 1pl 2022 Auction for 8.25 Crores. Dhawan, a consistent run-getter in the competition, is the second-highest run-getter in the IPL’s history. With a wealth of experience under his belt and a large number of runs against his name, the swashbuckling left-hander will be crucial to PBKS’ fortunes.

He made his IPL debut in 2008. Shikhar Dhawan has played 221 matches to date in his IPL career and has scored 6,755 runs, with an average of 35.37. He has also slammed 2 centuries and 51 half-centuries, with his highest IPL score being 106* runs. Shikhar Dhawan has hit 766 fours and 152 sixes in his IPL career. He has played for six different franchises in his IPL career, but the 39-year-old is more likely to retire after the IPL in 2024.

Shikhar Dhawan, the swashbuckling left-hander, is on the cusp of a significant milestone in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Having consistently dazzled fans with his elegant strokeplay and unwavering determination, Dhawan is now just 30 runs away from completing 1000 runs for Punjab Kings (PBKS) in the IPL.

A Journey of Runs and Records

Shikhar Dhawan, the dynamic left-handed batsman, is on the verge of achieving a significant milestone in the Indian Premier League (IPL). With his exceptional batting prowess and consistent performances, Dhawan is closing in on completing 1000 runs for Punjab Kings (PBKS) in the IPL.

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Overall IPL Career

Dhawan’s IPL journey has been illustrious, marked by remarkable achievements. With an impressive total of 6754 runs, he ranks as the second-highest run-scorer in IPL history. His record includes two centuries and 51 half-centuries, showcasing his exceptional skill and consistency on the field.

2024 Season Performance

In the ongoing 2024 IPL season, Dhawan has already showcased his brilliance, accumulating 137 runs at a striking strike rate of 133.01. His ability to anchor the innings and score crucial runs has been pivotal for PBKS, contributing significantly to the team’s success.

Dhawan’s stint in the IPL has seen him represent various franchises, leaving a lasting impact wherever he goes. Notably, his tenure with the Delhi Capitals was remarkable before joining PBKS in 2022.

Impact on PBKS

Dhawan’s influence extends beyond his impressive statistics. His vast experience, leadership qualities, and calm demeanor on the field make him an invaluable asset for PBKS. Whether it’s stabilizing the innings or accelerating the run rate, Dhawan’s presence instills confidence and resilience in the team, elevating their performance on numerous occasions. Shikhar Dhawan’s impending milestone of 1000 runs for PBKS symbolizes his unwavering dedication and exceptional talent in the IPL arena.

The clash between Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and Punjab Kings (PBKS) in IPL 2024 Match 11 has set the stage for a thrilling encounter, with both teams showcasing their prowess on the field. But Lucknow Super Giants make a stunning comeback win to defeat Punjab Kings by 21 runs at Ekana Cricket Stadium on Saturday.

The dominance of Shikhar Dhawan and Jonny Bairstow

Shikhar Dhawan and Jonny Bairstow were the architects of the Punjab Kings’ innings, unleashing an array of boundaries and sixes to bolster their team’s total. However, their partnership faced a setback when IPL debutant Mayank Yadav intervened, inducing a crucial wicket.

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Shikhar Dhawan (70 off 49) and Jonny Bairstow crafted a brisk 42 off just 29 deliveries. But debutant Mayank Yadav broke the parternship of 102 runs for the first wicket and clinched three crucial wickets to break the backbone of Punjab’s strong start. Prabhsimran Singh as an impact substitute scored 19 runs off a mere 7 balls, embellished with two sixes and a boundary.

Mayank, making an impressive debut, bagged the wicket of wicketkeeper-batsman Jitesh Sharma (7 off 9) in a similar manner to Bairstow’s departure. Shashank Singh (8 off 6) and Livingstone’s spirited effort, accumulating 27 runs off just 16 deliveries laced with two sixes and an equal number of boundaries, PBKS ultimately fell short by 21 runs.

Most 50-plus scores in a losing cause in the IPL
28 – Virat Kohli
25 – David Warner
19 – Shikhar Dhawan
18 – KL Rahul

Mayank Yadav’s Impact on the Match

Mayank Yadav’s entry into the bowling attack proved pivotal for Lucknow Super Giants, as he orchestrated Bairstow’s dismissal, which provided a breakthrough for his team. This intervention altered the course of the match, injecting a sense of momentum into LSG’s campaign. He finished his spell of 4 overs with a figure of 3/27 with an impressive economy of 6.8.

Lucknow Super Giants Batting Performance

Lucknow Super Giants endured a tumultuous journey in their innings, witnessing a flurry of wickets at regular intervals. From the early departures of KL Rahul and Devdutt Padikkal to the dismissals of Marcus Stoinis, Quinton de Kock, Nicholas Pooran, Ayush Badoni, and Ravi Bishnoi, LSG faced formidable challenges.

Impressive Innings by LSG Batsmen

Despite the setbacks, Lucknow Super Giants rallied, thanks to stellar performances by Quinton de Kock, Krunal Pandya, and Nicholas Pooran. Quinton de Kock (54), Krunal Pandya (43*) and Nicholas Pooran (42). Their combined efforts propelled LSG to a commanding total of 199/8 in 20 overs, showcasing resilience and determination in adverse conditions.

The first wicket to fall tonight was KL Rahul, who went for 15 off nine deliveries in the fourth over. Followed by Devdutt Padikkal (six-ball 9), Marcus Stoinis gone for 19; Quinton de Kock gone for 54; Nicholas Pooran gone for 42. Ayush Badoni gone for 8. Ravi Bishnoi gone for duck. Mohsin Khan run out for two runs – Harshal Patel is turning out to be quite the finisher.

Toss Decision and Captaincy Change

In a strategic move, Nicholas Pooran, the stand-in skipper for Lucknow Super Giants, won the toss and elected to bat first against Punjab Kings. This decision was accompanied by a significant change in leadership, with Pooran assuming captaincy duties in place of KL Rahul.

IPL Points Table 2024

The clash between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Punjab Kings (PBKS) in the IPL 2024 season brought about high expectations and thrilling moments for cricket enthusiasts. Faf du Plessis, the skipper of RCB, won the toss and opted to bowl first. The decision set the tone for an intriguing encounter. However, PBKS faced an early setback with opener Jonny Bairstow departing early, courtesy of a brilliant delivery from Mohammed Siraj.

Anuj Rawat’s Catch

One of the highlights of the match was Anuj Rawat’s exceptional catch behind the stumps to dismiss the dangerous Sam Curran. Rawat’s athleticism and skill garnered widespread praise, with some comparing his performance to that of former Indian wicketkeeper-batsman MS Dhoni.

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It was the 5th delivery of the 18th over and Sam Curran was looking to go big as Punjab needed a strong finish. However, Yash Dayal who was hit for a boundary earlier in the over, bowled a good pacy bouncer that produced an top edge off the bat of Sam Curran who tried to hook the ball. The ball seemed to be going over Anuj Rawat but the wicketkeeper timed his jumped nicely to grab a one-handed stunner.

Anuj Rawat’s Record

Anuj Rawat’s catch marked a historic moment as he became the first wicketkeeper for RCB to achieve four dismissals in a single innings, showcasing his prowess behind the stumps.

PBKS Innings

Despite the early setback, PBKS captain Shikhar Dhawan led from the front, attempting to stabilize the innings. However, RCB’s bowlers applied consistent pressure, resulting in Dhawan’s departure after a valiant effort of 44 runs off 37 balls. Additionally, the departure of the dangerous Liam Livingstone for just 17 runs in 13 balls further hampered PBKS’ momentum. The team pinned their hopes on Jitesh Sharma and Sam Curran to provide a strong finish.

PBKS concluded their innings with a competitive total of 176/6, with contributions from various players, including Shashank, who provided crucial runs towards the end. With the pitch offering advantages to the batters, PBKS aimed to defend their total with an effective bowling strategy.

RCB Bowling Performance

RCB’s bowlers, notably Glenn Maxwell and Yash Dayal, showcased exceptional skills, restricting PBKS’ batters and preventing them from unleashing their full potential.

Sam Curran was the player of the match in Punjab Kings winning start to IPL 2024 against DC as he scored a brilliant 63 in a run-chase. After the wicket of Sam Curran, Jitesh Sharma also lost his wicket and Punjab Kings who would have hoped for a total of close to 200, have fallen well short of that landmark.

Punjab Kings (PBKS) performed below average in most IPL seasons. Despite being a formidable team, PBKS have often fallen short due to inconsistency, preventing them from winning their first IPL title. During the tournament’s auction season, the management made several fascinating and tactical acquisitions to improve their bowling and middle-order batting attack. With a new home stadium and a steady aim, Punjab Kings hope to reverse the tables and win their first title. So, here are the top four players on the PBKS roster to watch. 

Shikhar Dhawan

Shikhar Dhawan will aim to change the team’s fortunes in the competition with his leadership and hitting. With his extensive experience, explosive batting prowess, and leadership abilities, Dhawan can lead the Punjab Kings to their first IPL victory. His ability to score regularly at the top of the order and his intelligent leadership can give much-needed stability and direction for Punjab’s season.

Also, his ability to handle pressure and provide consistent results makes him an invaluable asset to the Punjab Kings in the IPL 2024. In his successful 217-match IPL career, he has scored 6616 runs, including 50 half-centuries and two centuries. 

Jitesh Sharma

Jitesh Sharma, the explosive wicketkeeper-batsman, adds firepower and aggression to Punjab’s middle order by scoring early runs and changing the game’s tempo. Recently, he has been appointed as the vice-captain of the arsenal.

Sharma’s ability to accelerate the run rate in the middle overs and fuel the innings makes him an essential asset in the team’s quest for success in IPL 2024, where his explosive batting might turn matches in Punjab Kings’ favour. In his IPL stint, he has made 543 runs in 26 games, with an impressive strike rate of over 160. 

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Harshal Patel

Harshal Patel was the most expensive Indian buy in the IPL 2024 auction. The Punjab paid a high price for his services, indicating the franchise’s confidence in his ability and prospective impact on the club. 

Harshal’s ability to confuse hitters with slower deliveries and pace changes makes him an effective T20 bowler. His slower balls, frequently disguised as conventional deliveries, can catch batters by surprise, leading to wickets or limiting scoring. In his IPL stint, he has scalped a commendable 111 wickets in 92 outings, with an economy of 8.59.

Rilee Rossouw

Rilee Rossouw is a South African left-handed batter renowned for his aggressive approach and ability to score rapidly. Rossouw’s extensive expertise in T20 cricket adds firepower to the team’s top order. His aggressive attitude and ability to dominate bowlers make him a great addition to the batting order.

Rossouw, a free-striking left-handed batsman with subcontinental-style wrists, has the potential to make a significant contribution to PBKS’ middle-order batting. In his brief IPL career, he scored 262 runs in 14 games with a strike rate above 140.

IPL 2024 is all set to begin on March 22 with an encounter between the defending champions Chennai Super Kings and Royal Challengers Bangalore. With just one day remaining for the most cash rich global T20 league to kickstart, it seems Chennai Super Kings have decided to welcome their new captain replacing MS Dhoni.

Ruturaj to replace Dhoni as CSK captain?

Even before any official confirmation from the franchise, the photoshoot of nine captains of the Indian Premier League 2024 today saw a youngster representing CSK in place of Mahendra Singh Dhoni. Ruturaj Gaikwad, the star opening batter from Chennai Super Kings turned up for the official photoshoot.

Shikhar Dhawan, the Punjab Kings captain did not appear for the shoot as well, but his absence was well explained by the official social media platform of the Indian Premier League. In fact with the same tweet, Punjab Kings unveiled their new vice-captain Jitesh Sharma. But no such reason was given for Ruturaj Gaikwad.

The tweet says,

Official confirmation from CSK

Just after the photoshoot images became viral on social media, Chennai Super Kings came up with their official statement. The statement reveals that Dhoni has handed over the responsibility to the youngster who has been a core member of the team since 2019.

MS Dhoni has handed over Chennai Super Kings’ captaincy to Ruturaj Gaikwad ahead of the start of TATA IPL 2024. 

Ruturaj has been an integral part of Chennai Super Kings since 2019 and has played 52 matches in IPL during this period.

The team looks forward to the upcoming season.

A batting average of 59 in 2021 and 34 in 2022 is pretty good but turns out it is not enough for Shikhar Dhawan, a lynchpin of the Indian batting line-up for a decade to make the World Cup squad.

Almost ten years since Shikhar Dhawan broke into the scene, the day where he along with Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma gave a glimpse of the next decade of Indian batting was seen. At Jaipur, facing an imposing target of 360, Shikhar Dhawan was quick to get off the blocks with 95 off 86. He was the one to start the chase while Rohit Sharma slowly got himself in before accelerating himself while Virat Kohli joined the party with a 52 ball 100, the fastest by an Indian Cricketer.

India chased down the target with 39 balls to go as the three batters provided a change in intent in Indian batting. From there on the template was set. Shikhar Dhawan was the one to get off the blocks quickly, opening the off-side nicely while Rohit Sharma settled into his innings, taking his time, which is probably why he had all those daddy hundreds.

Ten years later, India head into the World Cup, and Shikhar Dhawan will not be with Virat Kohli or Rohit Sharma for the big event. A modern-day great, Shikhar Dhawan has made over 6000 ODI runs at a strike rate of 91 and an average of 44. He has been out of the side since the Bangladesh tour at the end of last year, with Shubman Gill coming out as one of the best openers in the circuit at the moment.

He was a regular up until then, leading India when Rohit Sharma was absent, but a series with poor scores ended up having him go out. His entry though is remembered well. After making a rapid 187 on debut, Shikhar Dhawan made a comeback to the ODI side after a forgettable debut in 2011. He had a good time in the IPL and later played a starring role in the champions trophy cementing his spot until the 2019 World Cup.

Up until then, the batting line-up was heavily reliant on the trio of Dhawan, Rohit, and Virat, and with an inconsistent middle-order one of the three was often tasked with batting deep into the innings. The trio had their roles with Dhawan taking the job of going for quick runs up front, scoring at faster rates than Rohit Sharma.

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The opening pair of Dhawan and Rohit thrived with Dhawan’s faster starts as it allowed both batters to play to their strengths, which is possibly why Rohit has more centuries than Dhawan. In the 2019 World Cup, Rohit Sharma went on to have possibly his best tournament with five centuries while Dhawan had to go home with a fractured thumb as he made his way to a match-winning hundred against Australia. He managed only two games and was on his way back.

The century though was his sixth in ICC events, highlighting his value at the big stage. In 2015 as well, Dhawan came into the tournament with terrible form behind him. He struggled in Australia and England before the World Cup. Come the World Cup though and Dhawan was a different batter with two centuries in the tournament. He made a career out of showing up during ICC tournaments and was India’s man for those moments.

Returns though began to diminish after 2019. He scored consistently but the strike-rate and big scores came down. Age potentially could have caught up to a batter highly reliant on hand-eye coordination. With Dhawan dropping out, Gill got his moment. With Gill in and with changes in ODI Cricket Rohit Sharma too has changed his style a touch. Rather than starting slow and steady he has been a lot faster up front. As a result, though the big scores have come down and Rohit too has struggled to get to the 3-figure mark after the 2019 World Cup consistently.

The role of the opening accumulator has gone away, leaving no room for Dhawan at the top. His exclusion though still remains debatable. An ICC tournament great who averages 44 and is still very athletic in the field can be very tough to leave out. Situations though leave him out as Dhawan fades away without actually having gone away. Interestingly though, the top-order now is going based on his playbook during his peak years. After paving the way to a faster opening partnership following Virender Sehwag, India finally move beyond another wonderful opener who has given a generation a lot of memories throughout his career.