Shikhar Dhawan Hints At Uncertain IPL Future Amid Retirement Speculation

With the Indian Premier League (IPL) season nearing its conclusion, discussions about veteran players returning for the next edition have become a focal point among experts and fans.

Dinesh Karthik has announced that he has played his last match in the league. Meanwhile, speculation continues about Mahendra Singh Dhoni's future, as he has often dismissed retirement talks.

Additionally, there are discussions about Indian captain Rohit Sharma's next move after being replaced as captain of Mumbai Indians. David Warner is also set to retire from international cricket after the T20 World Cup 2024.

Besides these prominent names, several other players who have been part of the IPL since its inception or early years might have played their last season in 2024.

While Rohit's decision remains uncertain, his former opening partner Shikhar Dhawan has acknowledged that he is entering a transitional phase and is on the verge of a new chapter in his life.

The 38-year-old has been absent from international cricket since December 2022. Although he remains a regular in the IPL, Punjab Kings' exit this season has led to speculation about his future.

Amid increasing retirement rumours, Dhawan stated that he is taking things as they come, showing his calm and composed nature. However, he hinted that he might have played his final match.

"I am also going through a transition 'Jahan Meri Cricket Vishram Pe Aayegi' and a new chapter in my life will start. You only have a certain age till you can play. It could be one year more, two years more, or xyz for me," Dhawan said in an interview with ANI.

Will Dhawan feature in IPL 2025?

Dhawan has been part of the IPL since its inception in 2008, playing for several clubs over his 17-year career. He had one-year stints with Delhi Capitals and Mumbai Indians before spending two seasons at Deccan Chargers.

The left-handed opener gained prominence during his time with Sunrisers Hyderabad and Delhi Capitals before moving to Punjab Kings in the 2022 Mega Auction for Rs 8.25 Crore.

He was appointed captain in his first season with Punjab Kings and made valuable contributions over the past two seasons. However, he suffered a shoulder injury in the 2024 edition and missed most of the season.

Despite his consistent performance with the bat, he is unlikely to be retained by Punjab Kings before the IPL 2025 Mega Auction, scheduled for late this year or early next year. Even in the auction, he may not attract a high fee or find many takers.

The veteran opener has established himself as one of the most decorated batters in IPL history. Dhawan, who is the first player to hit back-to-back hundreds in the league, is the second-highest run-getter with 6769 runs. However, his IPL future remains uncertain.