Cricket World Cup 2015: Shikhar Dhawan in Love With Australia, But Yeh Dil Hai Hindustani
Australia is Shikhar Dhawan's second home. His wife, Ayesha, is an Aussie of Indian origin and the dashing opener says the experience of playing cricket Down Under is helping him in Cricket World Cup 2015.
India opener Shikhar Dhawan has been in terrific form in Cricket World Cup 2015 so far. With a half-century against Pakistan and a century against South Africa, he has quickly established himself as one of the premier batsmen to watch out for Down Under. While team support is crucial, playing in 'second home' Australia may be adding to his confidence. (Also read: Keeping calm helps Dhawan score big)
Married to Ayesha - an Australian of Indian origin -- Dhawan spends a lot of his free time in the country. "Australia is a very beautiful country and very systematic. I've got a home here now and my family lives here. So I enjoy coming over here," said the Delhi batsman on the eve of India's match against UAE in Perth. (In pics: Stylish Kohli leads India's training session)
Interestingly, Dhawan and Ayesha have a home in Melbourne which is also where the batsman smashed a century to silence South Africa's big guns last Sunday. India's success is paramount for the 29-year-old.
"From cricketing point of view, I feel it's one of the best places to play cricket, and I have really enjoyed whatever cricket I have played over here (India and India A)," said Dhawan.
Father to an infant son, Dhawan may be admiring of the Aussie country and culture but currently has eyes on India's success. The defending champions take on minnows UAE and Dhawan does not want to take things lightly.
"I haven't watched their videos yet. So once I go back to the hotel after the practice, I'm going to watch a few of their videos," said the left-handed dashing opener.
India are eyeing a hattrick of wins and success at WACA will depend once again on how Dhawan bats right at the top. A chance to set or make records, the batsman is itching for a big score - one that could virtually guarantee India a spot in the quarters.
(With PTI inputs)