WC 2015 Ind vs Aus: Shikhar Dhawan – the ‘Gabbar’ who shoots with the bat

Sydney: Team India opener Shikhar Dhawan’s bond with Australia has been a steady one. Ayesha, his wife, is an Indian-origin Australian and he made his One Day International (ODI) and Test debut against the Aussies too. He failed to deliver in the ODI but India won the match by five wickets. In the Test match, he slammed 187 off 174. Result? India won.

Whether or not he delivers with the bat, his presence creates a win-win situation.

In the semifinal of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2015 against Australia here at the Sydney Cricket Ground, Dhawan played a good hand (45 off 41) with six boundaries and a six. He gave Team India the much needed start, timing the ball perfectly.

Dhawan, nicknamed ‘Gabbar’, is no less than a bandit when it comes to bashing opponents. In the World Cup, he surprised his critics who questioned his selection in the team. He slammed two tons (against South Africa and Ireland) and a half-century against Pakistan.

However, it remains to be seen whether luck favours the Men in Blue on Thursday. But come what may, Dhawan tried his best to ensure that he doesn’t bow down to his in-laws.