In an exclusive conversation with IANS, Dhawan opens up about 'The One', his deeply personal autobiography, shares life lessons for India\u2019s youth, recounts memorable on-field moments, and offers insights into the rising stars of Indian cricket.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Raw, honest, and reflective \u2014 this is Shikhar Dhawan like never before.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Excerpt:<\/p>\r\n\r\n
IANS: What inspired you to write the autobiography? Is it only about your professional journey, or does it include personal revelations too?<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Dhawan: The idea was to show people the journey beyond what they\u2019ve seen. 'The One' is not just about the runs I made or the matches I played \u2014 it\u2019s about my emotional journey, my failures, heartbreaks, spiritual growth, and how I evolved as a person. It includes the unseen, silent battles I fought off the field. I wanted to be vulnerable and honest so others, especially the youth, can relate to it and take something from it.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
IANS: Considering your own journey, what professional and personal advice would you give to the youth of India?<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Dhawan: I\u2019d say, have faith in your process. Consistency beats talent if talent isn\u2019t focused. And never be afraid of failure. I\u2019ve had many setbacks in my life and career, but I treated them as lessons. Also, stay grounded. Success is temporary, but values, discipline, and gratitude will keep you going no matter what.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
IANS: Who was the toughest bowler you faced in your career? Any sledging or funny on-field exchanges you remember?<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Dhawan: Dale Steyn was always a tough one \u2014 he had raw pace, aggression, skill, and that fierce look! James Anderson too. As for sledging, it\u2019s part of the game. Sometimes, it\u2019s the sledging that brings out the best in you.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
IANS: What are your thoughts on the young Indian team playing in England? What are their chances?<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Dhawan: First of all, I\u2019d like to congratulate the entire team for winning at Edgbaston after 58 years \u2014 a phenomenal achievement. The way the boys bounced back in the second Test showed real character and resilience.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Shubman Gill led from the front with outstanding knocks of 269 and 161, brilliantly supported by Mohammed Siraj and Akash Deep with the ball, especially in the absence of Bumrah. Even in the first Test, though we ended up on the losing side, the performance was full of positives. Gill scored a solid 147, while Rishabh Pant was exceptional with twin centuries \u2014 134 and 118 \u2014 showing great maturity and adaptability in English conditions.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Dhawan: First of all, I\u2019d like to congratulate the entire team for winning at Edgbaston after 58 years \u2014 a phenomenal achievement. The way the boys bounced back in the second Test showed real character and resilience.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The team clearly learnt from the first match and came back stronger in the second. Both Tests so far have been exciting and full of quality cricket. Now it will be interesting to see how England responds. After the second Test, the pressure seems to be shifting \u2014 and that\u2019s a great sign for India moving forward.<\/p>\r\n\r\n