The excitement is building up as the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 draws near. The anticipation of witnessing some of the greatest cricketers stepping onto the field for possibly the last time in the One Day International (ODI) format is palpable. The tournament, scheduled to commence on October 5th and culminate with the grand finale on November 19th, will be hosted by India for the first time since the 2011 World Cup. While the entire cricketing fraternity eagerly awaits the action, the rumor mills have been abuzz with speculations about some prominent players considering retirement post the World Cup. This blog delves into the top 5 cricketers who may retire from ODIs after the Cricket World Cup 2023.
The Indian cricket team's opening batter, Shikhar Dhawan, finds himself at a crossroads in his ODI career. Despite a history of impressive performances, Dhawan's recent decline in form has raised concerns about his inclusion in the World Cup squad. The resurgence of the young Shubman Gill further complicates Dhawan's chances. However, Dhawan's legacy in ICC events cannot be overlooked. With 1238 runs in 20 innings across two World Cups and two Champions Trophies, he has been India's pillar in crucial encounters. His partnership with Rohit Sharma, a prolific pairing with 5148 runs to their name, showcases Dhawan's ability to perform on the big stage. If given a chance, this could be a fitting sendoff for a player who knows how to light up the World Cup.
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New Zealand's Martin Guptill, a proven force at the top of the order, could potentially bid farewell to ODIs after the World Cup. Guptill, known for his explosive batting, has a remarkable record of 7346 runs in 198 matches. While he's been away from international cricket, his performances in domestic games have been consistent. However, the emergence of talents like Finn Allen and Devon Conway raises the competition for an opening slot. Guptill's memorable 237 against West Indies in the 2015 World Cup quarter-final remains etched in cricketing history. With his experience and game-changing ability, Guptill's presence in the dressing room can motivate the younger players. As the Auckland native sets his sights on one last hurrah, he aims to propel New Zealand to glory.
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Australian opener David Warner has announced his intention to retire from all formats of the game, with the ODI World Cup marking his farewell. A true match-winner, Warner's prowess is evident from his splendid performances in the last World Cup, where he amassed 647 runs in 10 innings. While he's played only nine ODIs in India, he's proven his mettle with an average of 52. With the tournament taking place in India, Warner's familiarity with the conditions adds a strategic advantage to Australia's campaign. The 2015 World Cup winner will aim to script a perfect conclusion to his illustrious career, one that's marked by his ability to dominate any attack.
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Shakib Al Hasan, the poster boy of Bangladesh cricket, is primed for a grand farewell from the ODI format. The stellar all-rounder's performances have been instrumental in Bangladesh's rise in limited-overs cricket. With 1146 runs and 34 wickets in World Cups, Shakib's impact is undeniable. Ranking ninth in the all-time leading run-scorers list of the World Cup, he's set to climb higher. His exceptional run in the 2019 World Cup showcased his match-winning capabilities. While T20 leagues beckon, Shakib's focus on the ICC trophy is evident. His leadership and all-round prowess make him a formidable force that can challenge even the strongest teams.
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The most surprising addition to this list is none other than India's captain, Rohit Sharma. The cricketer, who's been entrusted with the responsibility of ending India's ICC trophy drought, could potentially be donning the ODI jersey for the last time. With 978 runs in 17 World Cup matches, including a record-breaking five centuries in the 2019 edition, Rohit's brilliance on the biggest stage is undeniable. The heartbreak of the 2019 semi-final loss only fuels his determination to bring the cup home this time. Leading the team at home adds an extra layer of pressure, but Rohit's journey from being left out of the 2011 World Cup squad to captaining the nation showcases his resilience. A born leader, Rohit's pursuit of the World Cup is a befitting swansong to his illustrious ODI career.
As the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 inches closer, cricket fans around the world are preparing to bid adieu to some of the sport's legendary figures. These five cricketers, Shikhar Dhawan, Martin Guptill, David Warner, Shakib Al Hasan, and Rohit Sharma, have etched their names in cricketing history through their remarkable performances. While retirement might be on the horizon, their contributions to the game will be cherished forever. The World Cup in India promises not only thrilling matches but also the potential for the perfect farewell stories for these remarkable players.
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