Zim vs Ind 2022 – Shikhar Dhawan embraces spirituality to stay positive

“I learnt it through spirituality,” he said when asked on Tuesday how he has remained calm through the many highs and lows in his career. “You need to practice [having a calm mindset] just like you practice cricket.

“It’s something I try and pass on to the youngsters as well. As cricketers, we are all living our dream, and if you don’t live happily [despite that], what’s the point? It’s small things like these. I don’t try and let negativity seep in. I try to be positive always.”

“It’s very good news that KL is back in the side. He’s one of the main players of the Indian team and with the Asia Cup coming up, it’s going to be a good outing for him. I’m sure he’ll gain a lot from this tour”

Shikhar Dhawan

“We don’t play that much cricket [against each other], but we have all the data,” Dhawan said. “From there, we find out the opponent’s strengths and weaknesses. I guess that is where technology comes in handy. In one game, you get to know the patterns pretty quickly. Even before that we use technology to get going with our planning.”

Dhawan was also pleased that the IPL has produced several options at the top of the order. The 16-man squad has as many as five opening options: Dhawan aside, there’s Rahul, Gill, Ishan Kishan, Ruturaj Gaikwad and Sanju Samson.

“With more exposure, they’re quite confident,” Dhawan said of his younger colleagues. “Everyone’s different. They have good techniques. The transition for the Indian team has been great due to domestic cricket and IPL. Their confidence levels are high, that’s why they blend into international cricket quite quickly. They’ve been doing so well. We feel great that we’ve got so many options, so it’s a very healthy sign for us.”

Dhawan felt the upcoming three-match series was equally an opportunity for Zimbabwe to show their improvements as a team. “It’s good for world cricket that we’re playing each other,” he said. “It will give them confidence. Our young boys will get opportunities in different conditions. It’s only by playing that Zimbabwe will also get better, especially against quality sides. That’s how they will also learn.”