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Shikhar Dhawan To Yuvraj Singh: 7 Legendary Indian Cricketers Who Deserved A Farewell Match
Farewell matches have often been a way for cricketers to bid adieu to their fans allowing them to say goodbye on a high note. In cricket-loving nations like India, such occasions are cherished not only by the players but also by the millions of fans who have watched them over the years. However, not every cricketing legend gets the opportunity to have a farewell. Here, we look at 7 legendary Indian cricketers who deserved a farewell match but never got one.
Shikhar Dhawan
Shikhar Dhawan has been a vital cog in India’s batting lineup, especially in ICC events. India's dynamic batter announced his retirement from both international and domestic cricket on Saturday, August 24, 2024. Dhawan deserved a farewell match for sure.
Yuvraj Singh
Yuvraj Singh is one of the most celebrated cricketers in Indian cricket history. Despite his heroic contributions and a career spanning nearly two decades, Yuvraj Singh announced his retirement in 2019 without a farewell match. A proper send-off in a packed stadium would have been a fitting tribute to his remarkable career.
Gautam Gambhir
Gautam Gambhir was a key player in India’s success in the late 2000s and early 2010s, playing crucial roles in both the 2007 ICC T20 World Cup and the 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup finals. Gambhir’s contributions at the top of the order were invaluable, yet his retirement announcement in 2018 came without a farewell match.
Virender Sehwag
Virender Sehwag was one of the most destructive batsmen in cricket history. Despite his significant contributions and being one of the few Indian players to score over 8,000 runs in both Tests and ODIs, Sehwag retired in 2015 without a formal farewell.
Harbhajan Singh
Harbhajan Singh was a key figure in India’s bowling attack for over a decade. His fiery spells and ability to pick up crucial wickets made him one of India’s greatest spinners. Harbhajan's retirement in 2021, without a farewell match, was a quiet end to a loud and impactful career. A farewell match would have been a fitting tribute to the 'Turbanator.
MS Dhoni
MS Dhoni, one of the greatest captains in cricket history, led India to numerous victories. His announcement of retirement on August 15, 2020, came via an Instagram post. His retirement without a formal farewell match left fans and the cricketing community in shock. A farewell match would have allowed millions of fans to celebrate Dhoni’s illustrious career.
Zaheer Khan
Zaheer Khan, one of India’s finest fast bowlers, played a crucial role in many of India’s victories, especially in Test cricket. Over his career, Zaheer took over 600 wickets across all formats. However, his retirement in 2015 came quietly, without a farewell match.