Shikhar Dhawan Gets Candid: Life, Cricket, and ‘The One’ — His Journey Beyond the Pitch
Known for his flamboyant stroke play and ever-smiling demeanor on the field, Shikhar Dhawan has long been a standout figure in Indian cricket. But behind the boundary lines and record-breaking performances lies a deeply introspective man who has now decided to tell his story — raw, real, and reflective — through his autobiography titled The One.
In an exclusive conversation with IANS, the former Indian opener sheds light on the inspiration behind his book, shares life lessons from his personal and professional journey, and weighs in on India’s impressive performance in the ongoing Test series in England.
“The One is About My Truth” – Dhawan on Writing His Autobiography
When asked what motivated him to write The One, Dhawan explained that it was a desire to showcase the journey that fans haven’t seen on television or scorecards.
“The idea was to show people the journey beyond what they’ve seen,” Dhawan said. “The One is not just about the runs I made or the matches I played — it’s about my emotional journey, my failures, heartbreaks, spiritual growth, and how I evolved as a person. It includes the unseen, silent battles I fought off the field. I wanted to be vulnerable and honest so others, especially the youth, can relate to it and take something from it.”
The autobiography promises to go beyond the cricketing milestones and delve into personal stories, providing readers with a front-row seat to the man behind the cricketer.
Advice to Indian Youth: “Have Faith in Your Process”
With a career spanning over a decade at the top level, Dhawan’s journey has been full of ups and downs. When asked what advice he would offer young Indians chasing their dreams, Dhawan emphasized consistency, faith, and humility.
“I’d say, have faith in your process. Consistency beats talent if talent isn’t focused. And never be afraid of failure. I’ve had many setbacks in my life and career, but I treated them as lessons. Also, stay grounded. Success is temporary, but values, discipline, and gratitude will keep you going no matter what.”
It’s a message that resonates beyond cricket — one that’s rooted in experience and personal transformation.
Facing the Fiercest: Steyn, Anderson, and a Dose of Sledging
Reflecting on the toughest competitors he’s faced, Dhawan didn’t hesitate to name two of modern cricket’s fiercest bowlers:
“Dale Steyn was always a tough one — he had raw pace, aggression, skill, and that fierce look! James Anderson too.”
As for the banter on the field?
“Sledging is part of the game. Sometimes, it’s the sledging that brings out the best in you.”
The Delhi-born opener’s resilience and calmness were often seen in how he handled pressure, making him a fan favorite during high-stakes games.
India’s Test Triumph in England: A New Era in the Making?
Shifting gears to current cricket, Dhawan couldn’t hide his admiration for the young Indian team’s performance in England, especially after their historic win at Edgbaston — India’s first in 58 years at the iconic venue.
“First of all, I’d like to congratulate the entire team for winning at Edgbaston — a phenomenal achievement. The way the boys bounced back in the second Test showed real character and resilience.”
Standout Performers
He singled out Shubman Gill, who scored 269 and 161, and praised the bowling attack led by Mohammed Siraj and Akash Deep, especially in the absence of Jasprit Bumrah.
“Even in the first Test, though we ended up on the losing side, the performance was full of positives. Gill scored a solid 147, while Rishabh Pant was exceptional with twin centuries — 134 and 118 — showing great maturity and adaptability in English conditions.”
He also credited KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal for their fluent centuries, which laid the foundation for India’s strong batting display.
“Scoring five centuries in a single match on English soil is no small feat. Jasprit Bumrah was equally impactful, picking up a five-wicket haul and keeping the English batters on their toes.”
Dhawan believes the team has not only proven its talent but also its ability to learn and bounce back.
“The team clearly learnt from the first match and came back stronger in the second. Both Tests so far have been exciting and full of quality cricket. Now it will be interesting to see how England responds. After the second Test, the pressure seems to be shifting — and that’s a great sign for India moving forward.”
A Cricketer, A Fighter, A Philosopher
With The One, Dhawan has stepped into a new role — that of a storyteller, sharing lessons from the pitch and life alike. His reflections serve as a beacon for anyone navigating personal and professional highs and lows.
For Indian cricket fans and readers alike, his book offers more than just a memoir — it offers perspective, perseverance, and purpose.
Quick Read Summary:
- Shikhar Dhawan’s autobiography The One explores his emotional and personal journey beyond cricket.
- He shares lessons on consistency, failure, and humility for India’s youth.
- Dhawan named Dale Steyn and James Anderson as the toughest bowlers he faced.
- He praised India’s current Test team for their comeback win at Edgbaston and strong overall performance.
- Young stars like Shubman Gill, Rishabh Pant, and Mohammed Siraj are showing maturity and promise.
- Dhawan believes India has the momentum heading into the next matches.