Ignored For Asian Games, ‘Gabbar’ Dhawan Shoots For IPL

Shikhar Dhawan had thought that he would be in India’s Asian Games side. Possibly, he would be asked to captain the team mostly comprising youngsters, what with the main team busy with World Cup preparation. 

But life rarely goes the way you expect it to, even if you are Gabbar. 

The 37-year-old Dhawan was not in the team for Hangzhou, and it was a surprise to him. 

"When my name was not there (for Asian Games), I was a bit shocked. But, then, I was like they have a different thought process, you just have to accept it. Happy that Rutu (Ruturaj Gaikwad) will lead the side. All the young boys are there, I am sure they will do well," Dhawan told PTI on Thursday.

So Dhawan is doing what he can. Train and be ready in case a call comes. Else there’s the IPL and his dream of winning the title for his team, Punjab Kings.  Domestic tournaments like the Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 Trophy and 50-over Vijay Hazare Trophy excite him as well.

"I will be ready, of course (for the comeback). That is why I keep myself fit. There is always a chance whether it is one percent or 20 percent,” said Dhawan, who has played 167 games for India in his main format, ODIs, with 6793 runs and 17 centuries. 

"I still enjoy training and I still enjoy the game, these are the things in my control. Whatever decision is made, I respect that. I have not spoken to any selector (about my future). I keep going to NCA. I enjoy my time there, the facilities are great. NCA has shaped my career and I am grateful for it.

Dhawan added, "Also I have an IPL to win for Punjab Kings. Hopefully, we can do that next year. I will be playing the Syed Mushtaq Ali and, hopefully, the Vijay Hazare as well.”

Dhawan said the problem with being a single format player was that you did not play often. Those who played multiple formats found it easier to be in the groove as well as stay on the radar of selectors. 

"When the other players are involved in multiple formats, the flow (in the game) is a bit more and that matters a lot,” he said. “If they do well, then they are noticed as well."

Nonetheless, Dhawan is content as he has had a long and successful career by any measure. After all, he has over 10,000 international runs to his credit, with three World Cup hundreds.

"I am in a very happy state of mind,” Dhawan said. “When you play the World Cup it is a great feeling. I am very blessed to have such an amazing career and contribute to the Indian team.”