Shikhar Dhawan Joins New League Shortly After Announcing Retirement

Former India opener Shikhar Dhawan recently ended his eminent 13-year international career with his retirement announcement just days ago. Dhawan, who announced his retirement from all formats on Saturday (August 24), disclosed on Monday (August 26) that he will be taking part  in the new Legends League Cricket (LLC).

Fame for his liberal batting and lively charismatic attitude, Dhawan's move to the LLC represents a new chapter in his eminent career. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) hinders cricketers who have not officially retired from participating in leagues other than the Indian Premier League (IPL).

Dhawan expressed his feelings about joining the Legends League Cricket (LLC) in a statement on Monday, saying "Taking on this new chapter with Legends League Cricket feels like the ideal progression after my retirement. My body is still conditioned for the demands of the game, and while I'm at ease with my decision, cricket is an inseparable part of who I am, it will never go out of me. I'm eager to regroup with my cricketing friends and continue to entertain my fans as we create new memories together."

Dhawan's international cricket career brags various remarkable achievements, including being named 'Player of the Tournament' at the 2013 ICC Champions Trophy. He has gathered over 6,793 runs in One-Day Internationals (ODIs) with an impressive average of 44.1, and 27.92 in T20 Internationals, alongside a strike rate of 91.35. His impact on both the Indian cricket team and the Indian Premier League (IPL) has marked his status as a cricketing icon. Over a career spanning more than a decade, Dhawan played 269 matches, amassing 10,867 runs at an average of 40.

Raman Raheja, co-founder of Legends League Cricket, welcomed Dhawan to the league, stating, "We are thrilled to have Shikhar Dhawan join us. His experience and flair will undoubtedly enhance the competition and entertain fans. We look forward to seeing him in action alongside other cricket legends. This will further enhance our position as the 2nd innings for legendary cricketers."

The LLC has included former India cricketer and current Team India head coach Gautam Gambhir, along with Harbhajan Singh, Mohammad Kaif, Praveen Kumar, Robin Uthappa, Parthiv Patel, and Suresh Raina.