Overview:
In a chapter that has drawn attention, Dhawan describes walking hand-in-hand with his British girlfriend, Ellen, in a hotel lobby, a moment that quickly caught the notice of team management.
The launch of Shikhar Dhawan’s autobiography The One: Cricket, My Life and More had the casual feel of a team locker room rather than a formal literary event. Dhawan engaged the audience with his signature smile, humorous anecdotes, thoughtful reflections, and subtle life lessons. During a conversation with NDTV in New Delhi, he was asked about one of the greatest Indian cricketers, Virat Kohli, and he answered without taking a pause.
“I pray that he reaches 100 centuries,” Dhawan said, reflecting the love and affection he has for his former teammate.
“It all comes down to how much hunger he carries in his heart,” Dhawan added.
Not just a book, but years of experiences put together. Really thankful to everyone who supported me through this journey 🙌 pic.twitter.com/HRNP9IK1vC
— Shikhar Dhawan (@SDhawan25) December 15, 2025
Dhawan’s book doesn’t just celebrate others and also offers unflinching honesty about his own struggles. He recalled an episode from his early Australia tour that nearly disrupted his career. In a chapter that has drawn attention, Dhawan describes walking hand-in-hand with his British girlfriend, Ellen, in a hotel lobby, a moment that quickly caught the notice of team management. Although there was no confrontation, Dhawan says his form declined soon after, along with his chances in the playing XI.
“Looking back, I take full responsibility without making a fuss. I was young, met a girl at the airport, went on tour with her, and it ended up having consequences.”
He doesn’t portray it as a scandal. “It affected my career. I was just a one or two away,” he admitted. Dhawan said he shares the story so that younger players can pause, reflect, and learn from it.
Dhawan wants to be a part of Bollywood. “I make reels with passion and let’s see what happens next,” he concluded.