New Delhi: Following his recent announcement to retire from international and domestic formats of cricket, Shikhar Dhawan has reportedly joined the Legends League Cricket (LLC) on Monday.
On Saturday, the 38-year-old announced his decision to retire from the bigger platforms of the game after playing 34 Tests, 167 One-Day Internationals and 68 T20 Internationals from 2010 to 2022 with his last appearance in the Indian shirt coming on December 10, 2022, during the third ODI match against Bangladesh in Chattogram.
Although there was no confirmation over Dhawan continuing to play the Indian Premier League (IPL) in future, the recent report from news agency PTI indicates the left-handed batter won’t be seen in the cash-rich league anymore.
“My body is still conditioned for the demands of the game, and while I’m at ease with my decision, cricket is an inseparable part of who I am, it will never go out of me. I am eager to regroup with my cricketing friends and continue to entertain my fans as we create new memories together,” said Dhawan in a statement, as quoted by news agency PTI.
The report suggests that Dhawan will join LLC, which means he won’t continue to play for Punjab Kings in the IPL. The IPL franchise also posted a farewell post for their latest captain once he announced his retirement.
Under the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) rules, players can only participate in other T20 leagues if they announce retirement from international and domestic cricket, which also means they cannot compete in the IPL anymore.
What is Legends League Cricket?
Legends League Cricket is a platform for retired player to showcase their skills and continue their attachment with the game and its fans. The LLC was introduced in 2022 with Indian Maharajas, Asia Lions, and World Giants were the three teams to feature in.
The LLC is owned by the Absolute Legends Sports Pvt. Ltd. The year 2022 also saw the LLC come up with a franchise-based tournament with four more teams joining India Capitals, Gujarat Giants, Bhilwara Kings, and Manipal Tiger. Asia Lions was not part of that season with Indian Maharajas and World Giants comprising to form a 6-team event.
The last edition played between November and December in 2023 added two new franchises in Urbanisers Hyderabad and Southern Superstars. Manipal Tigers won the LLC 2023 title after defeating Urbanisers Hyderabad by five wickets.
There is no confirmation on which team will Dhawan be part of. The player or the league organisers are also yet to confirm the development.
Shikhar Dhawan announced his decision to retire from the bigger platforms of the game after playing 34 Tests, 167 One-Day Internationals and 68 T20 Internationals from 2010 to 2022 Cricket Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
