What Makes Irfan Pathan Praise Shikhar Dhawan's Career Resilience?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Shikhar Dhawan is celebrated for his resilience and positivity.
- He scored over 10,000 runs in international cricket.
- Dhawan's journey illustrates the importance of handling failures.
- The 'Beyond the Boundaries' event promotes grassroots sports.
- Irfan Pathan's praise emphasizes Dhawan's character.
London, July 24 (NationPress) Former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan has showered accolades on veteran opener Shikhar Dhawan, describing him as a fun-loving personality and a fighter due to the positivity the Delhi batter exuded both on the field and in the dressing room.
Dhawan, who hung up his boots from international cricket last year, was a formidable presence in the Indian top order throughout a career that lasted more than 12 years, participating in 34 Tests, 167 ODIs, and 68 T20Is, accumulating a remarkable 10,867 runs.
Recently, Dhawan revisited the legendary Lord's Cricket Ground -- not for competition, but to participate in a special event dubbed 'Beyond the Boundaries', an initiative led by Da One Group, an organization founded by Dhawan focusing on grassroots sports, youth development, and impactful social initiatives.
Numerous former teammates of Dhawan gathered at the Lord's Long Room for the event on Wednesday, including Pathan and Suresh Raina.
"He is a fun-loving character. He’s perpetually smiling. Regardless of the circumstances, he’s a fighter," Pathan shared with IANS in London. "He has been a Mr. ICC for the Indian cricket team. He performed exceptionally well, and during his time with India, he gave it his all."
Dhawan was recognized as an ODI specialist, shining in the ICC Champions Trophy 2013, where he not only propelled India to a title victory but also emerged as the tournament's top run-scorer with 363 runs at an average of 90.75. His stellar performances continued in various tournaments such as the Asia Cup 2014, Cricket World Cup 2015, Champions Trophy 2017, and Asia Cup 2018.
"He faced numerous injuries and witnessed challenging times. He has persevered through difficult paths. Reflecting on scoring over 10,000 international runs for Team India across all formats, he has every reason to be immensely proud. We all take pride in him, and it’s always a joy to be in his company," Pathan elaborated.
"There are countless lessons I've absorbed from the game," Dhawan told IANS, reflecting on the wisdom gained throughout his career.
"Firstly, understanding how to cope with failures. Cricket teaches you to manage failures with composure and grace, continuing to move forward with the process. This is the lesson I've learned from cricket: to maintain positivity. You should be your own best friend, as individuals converse with themselves the most. Hence, it’s vital to maintain a positive dialogue, even when circumstances aren't favorable," Dhawan concluded.
IANS
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