Realised that life doesn't revolve around cricket after being dropped: Shikhar Dhawan

Mumbai: Shikhar Dhawan has been one of the key mainstays in Team India for quite some time now. Not only the limited overs format but the Delhi batsman has proved his nonchalance even in the longest format.

With an intense year of cricketing action approaching, the swashbuckling left-hander will once again be a key for Virat Kohli-led India during their upcoming assignments.

However, things have not always been hunky dory for the southpaw who has witnessed several ups and downs in his career. Having made his international debut against Australia in October 2010, the hard-hitting batsman was soon shown the door as he underwent a lean patch.

After overcoming fitness issues, he made a stunning comeback to seal his place in the national team, with selectors opting to choose him over Delhi teammate Gautam Gambhir.

Recently, in a chat show on Breakfast with Champions, Dhawan revealed how his axing made him aware about the other aspects in his life along with stating that his life does not always revolve around cricket.

"If I'm destined to play for the national team then the opportunity will come my way. It is an eye-opener when you get dropped from the team. When I was benched I realised that my life does not revolve only around cricket, I have different aspects as well. Family is the most important aspect to my life. I don't think much. My main goal in my life is to remain happy and it is very important for me to stay like that," Dhawan said.

The ‘Gabbar’ of Indian cricket also opened up on his unique kabaddi-style celebration.

"This happened in Australia when I took Shane Watson's catch. I like to watch kabaddi, it's a manly sport. I enjoy it and celebrate taking catches very sincerely. People also look at me these days and do the celebration whenever I'm fielding near the boundary," he added.

During the recently-concluded 2018 IPL season, Dhawan finished as the second highest run-getter for runners-up Sunrisers Hyderabad just behind skipper Kane Williamson, who finished as the Orange Cap holder.

He will now fight against KL Rahul and Murali Vijay for a place in the opening slot as India host Afghanistan in a historic one-off Test in Bengaluru on June 14.