The Story Behind Shikhar Dhawan’s Nickname ‘Gabbar’

Add as a preferred source on Google

On August 24, 2024, India's stylish cricketer Shikhar Dhawan announced his retirement from both domestic and international cricket. The announcement marks the end of an illustrious career that saw Dhawan become a household name in Indian cricket.

His last appearance in the Indian jersey was during the ODI series against Bangladesh in December 2022, before he lost his place to the younger Shubman Gill.

Dhawan, known for his aggressive batting and charismatic presence, concluded his career with a heartfelt video message expressing gratitude to his fans for their unwavering support.

Among the many aspects that define Dhawan's cricketing legacy is his distinctive nickname, 'Gabbar.' The origin of this moniker is as fascinating as Dhawan’s on-field performances.

In an exclusive interaction with SportsTak, Dhawan revealed the story behind how he came to be known by this unique name.

Dhawan's journey to becoming 'Gabbar' began during his early days playing in the Ranji Trophy. He recounted a humorous incident that led to the coining of his nickname.

"I was playing in the Ranji Trophy and was sitting at silly point. When the other team has a big partnership then the players tend to get down. When I was sitting, I used to shout, 'Bahut yaarana hai suar ke bacchon' and everyone used to burst out laughing,” he said.

Dhawan explained that his coach at the time, Vijay, found the shouting amusing and started calling him 'Gabbar.' This nickname, inspired by the iconic villain Gabbar Singh from the classic Bollywood film Sholay, quickly stuck. "Our coach (Vijay) kept my name Gabbar from there only. From then on, the name became so famous that cricket fans all over the world now call me Gabbar only," Dhawan added during the interview.

The nickname 'Gabbar' symbolizes more than just Dhawan’s on-field persona. It reflects his larger-than-life presence and his ability to bring a unique blend of humor and aggression to the game. Dhawan’s fearless and aggressive approach to batting, coupled with his engaging personality, made the nickname an apt representation of his cricketing identity.

Throughout his career, Dhawan has been known for his stylish strokes and consistent performances across formats. He has represented India in 34 Tests, 167 ODIs, and 68 T20Is. Despite a brief hiatus due to a shoulder injury during IPL 2024, Dhawan's contribution to Indian cricket has been significant. His aggressive batting and flamboyant style earned him a special place in the hearts of fans and the cricketing community.

As Shikhar Dhawan steps away from the game, the name 'Gabbar' will continue to resonate in the cricketing world, reminding fans of a player who combined flair, skill, and a touch of humor. Dhawan’s journey from the Ranji Trophy to international stardom is a testament to his dedication and passion for the game. His nickname, born from a moment of light-heartedness, encapsulates the spirit with which he approached his illustrious career.