On August 24, 2024, Shikhar Dhawan announced his retirement from international cricket, marking the end of one of India’s most dynamic top-order partnerships in ODI history alongside Virat Kohli.
While the trio of Dhawan, Rohit Sharma, and Kohli often delivered impressive performances, the 2017 Champions Trophy final against Pakistan was a rare instance where none of them could shine. Despite this, Dhawan and Kohli formed several memorable partnerships that significantly impacted India’s ODI success.
Top 5 Shikhar Dhawan-Virat Kohli Partnerships in ODIs
#5 119 vs Australia, Melbourne – 2016
In this ODI, India’s bowlers struggled after their batting did well but couldn’t push the total beyond a competitive mark. Rohit Sharma’s early dismissal brought Dhawan and Kohli together. Kohli, in fine form, scored a brisk 119 runs, reaching his 7000th ODI run. Dhawan contributed with a steady 68 from 91 balls. India ended at 295/6, but Australia chased down the target with three wickets to spare, thanks to Glenn Maxwell’s 96.
#4 158 vs South Africa, Johannesburg – 2018
During the 2018 series where India won 5-1 against South Africa, Dhawan and Kohli combined for a 158-run partnership. Kohli, the Indian captain, and Dhawan provided a solid platform, with Dhawan scoring 109. Despite their efforts, South Africa managed to restrict India to 289/7. South Africa’s rain-affected chase saw Heinrich Klaasen and Andile Phehlukwayo steer them to victory, preserving their unbeaten streak in the series.
#3 197 vs Sri Lanka, Dambulla – August 2017*
In a 2017 ODI against Sri Lanka, Dhawan and Kohli exhibited their chase mastery. After Sri Lanka set a target of 217, India lost Rohit Sharma early. Dhawan and Kohli then put together a commanding 197-run partnership, with Dhawan scoring a brilliant 132* and Kohli adding an unbeaten 82. India won by nine wickets, showcasing their dominance in successful run chases.
#2 129 vs Pakistan, Adelaide – 2015
During the 2015 World Cup, India faced Pakistan on a pitch that initially favored batting. After losing Rohit Sharma, Kohli and Dhawan built a solid foundation with a 129-run stand. Kohli hit a century (107) while Dhawan scored 73 from 76 balls, helping India post 300 runs. Pakistan struggled in response and was dismissed for 224, with Mohammed Shami taking four wickets to dismantle their innings.
#1 212 vs Australia, Canberra – 2016
The duo’s highest partnership came in a tough ODI against Australia in Canberra. Chasing a daunting target of 349, India started well with Rohit Sharma’s brisk 41. Dhawan and Kohli then formed a formidable 212-run stand, with Dhawan scoring 126 and Kohli adding 106. Despite their efforts, India fell short by 25 runs due to a middle-order collapse, leading to a 4-1 series loss.
These partnerships highlight the exceptional chemistry between Dhawan and Kohli, contributing significantly to India’s ODI successes over the years.
