India’s veteran batter Shikhar Dhawan admitted he doesn’t have an idea why he isn’t considered in the T20I team. Dhawan had last played a T20I back in July 2021 when he had led a second-string Indian team on the tour of Sri Lanka.
Since then, Dhawan hasn’t received his chances in the T20I format despite performing consistently in the last couple of seasons. While playing for Punjab Kings in IPL 2022, Dhawan scored 460 runs in 14 matches at an outstanding average of 38.33.
In fact, Dhawan has significantly improved his strike rate in the last couple of seasons of the IPL but he hasn’t got his chances in the national team.
Meanwhile, Dhawan has all the experience under his belt and his record in major ICC trophies speak for itself. The left-hander makes a potent opening pair with Rohit Sharma in ODI cricket as the duo have been consistent for the team.
However, India is spoiled for choices in the T20I format as they have players like KL Rahul, Ishan Kishan, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Rohit Sharma, who can all open the innings.
“I honestly don’t know about it, maybe it could be the reason. I don’t want to go deep about it I have not played T20 for India for a long time now, I don’t know where I see myself. I look to make the most out of every opportunity I am getting. Be it IPL, domestic cricket, or ODI, I just want to do well, and that is the only thing under my control,” was quoted as saying by The Indian Express.
Dhawan now only plays ODI cricket for India and the left-hander added he likes playing the 50-overs format for the national team.
“I really enjoy playing ODI cricket. It’s an art and still has charm. I love playing it. Like Test and T20 have their values, ODI cricket is also exciting. I really like it,” Dhawan said.
On the other hand, Dhawan believes Virat Kohli is one knock away from finding his Midas touch back. Kohli has been struggling in the recent past and India would want him to be at his best in the Asia Cup.
“Virat is just one innings away and he is a champion player. I am sure he will come back soon. Once he starts going, there is no stopping for him,” Dhawan said.
Dhawan will lead India in the upcoming three-match ODI series against Zimbabwe.
