Former India opener Shikhar Dhawan showed off his fun-loving side once more by sharing a playful photo with leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal on Instagram. Posted on Thursday, June 19, the picture instantly caught fans’ attention, with the duo flaunting quirky, over-the-top outfits that perfectly captured their lighthearted chemistry and sense of humor.
Dhawan, 39, appeared in a warrior-inspired costume — a sleeveless ensemble highlighted by a bold decorative chest plate and bright red dhoti-style pants, evoking the image of a comical battlefield commander. Standing beside him, Chahal sported a shiny sherwani-like traditional robe, elevated with a grand pearl necklace and a golden cap. The flamboyant look was amplified by their confident poses and infectious smiles.
Captioning the picture, Dhawan wrote: “Ek maha-yudh… par sirf hasi ke liye!” (A grand battle… but only for laughs!), perfectly encapsulating the lighthearted spirit of the moment. It was a refreshing reminder of the jovial bond between the two cricketers, who are both known for their wit and humor off the field.
A Look at Their Recent Careers
Shikhar Dhawan officially announced his retirement from international cricket in August 2024, ending a glorious run that spanned over a decade. However, his love for the game stayed alive. Later that year, he took part in the Nepal Premier League, donning the jersey of Karnali Yaks. Despite being in the twilight of his career, the stylish southpaw delivered a strong performance — amassing 136 runs in four matches at an impressive average of 45.33 and a healthy strike rate of 122.52. His contribution included a crisp half-century that reminded fans of his prime days.
Yuzvendra Chahal, on the other hand, continues to be an active force in the T20 circuit. In the 2025 Indian Premier League, the 34-year-old represented Punjab Kings (PBKS), delivering a solid season with 16 wickets in 14 matches. Despite an economy rate of 9.55, his knack for breakthroughs made him a key asset. Unfortunately, Punjab’s campaign ended with a heartbreaking loss to Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the grand finale held on June 3 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Under the leadership of Shreyas Iyer, PBKS put up a competitive show, but RCB’s star-studded lineup proved too strong on the night.
Friendship Beyond the Pitch
This lighthearted social media moment highlights more than just amusing costumes — it’s a testament to the enduring friendships forged on the cricket field. Dhawan and Chahal, both known for their cheerful personalities, have shared numerous fun moments over the years. Whether during international tours or domestic leagues, their camaraderie continues to bring joy to fans who follow not just their performances but also their off-field personas.
In an era where athletes often double up as entertainers and influencers, this humorous post is yet another example of how cricket stars are bridging the gap between sport and pop culture. Their ability to balance performance with personality keeps them relevant and adored by millions.
With no signs of slowing down in their respective ventures — Dhawan in league cricket and mentorship roles, and Chahal in T20 leagues — the duo’s off-field antics offer delightful breaks for fans amid the intensity of professional cricket.
