Cricket

Shikhar Dhawan, the former Indian cricketer, has been vocal about his longing for his son, Zoraver, after announcing his retirement from international cricket. Despite being granted visitation rights and video call access, Dhawan has been blocked from seeing his son for months.In a recent interview with Hindustan Times, Dhawan expressed his hope that Zoraver would learn about his cricket journey and remember him as a good human being. "I would like for Zoraver to remember me as a good human being who does good deeds and brings positivity to people around him," Dhawan said.Dhawan's divorce from his ex-wife, Aesha Mukherji, in October 2023, resulted in him losing custody of Zoraver. The court ruled that Zoraver would be allowed to meet Dhawan and his family during trips to India and Australia.However, Dhawan has revealed that he has been unable to see or contact Zoraver for months. In December 2023, he posted a heartfelt message on his birthday, expressing his sadness and acceptance of the situation. "I write messages to him every day, I don't know whether he is receiving those or not, whether he is reading them or not. I don't have any expectations. I have accepted it. I am a father and I am trying to do my duty. I miss him, I feel sad but I have learnt to live with it," he said.Dhawan's longing for his son was also evident during the IPL 2024 season. He posted a photo on Instagram of a Punjab Kings jersey with Zoraver's name on the back, with the caption "You're Always with Me, My Boy."Despite the challenges, Dhawan remains hopeful that he will be able to reconnect with his son in the future. "I hope that one day, when Zoraver is old enough to understand, he will come to me and ask me about my life and my cricket journey. I will be there for him, whenever he needs me," Dhawan said.

Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya has opened up about the profound impact fatherhood has had on his life and perspective. Since becoming a father, Pandya has experienced a shift in his priorities and a newfound sense of calmness."My cricket didn't change much, but as a person, it changed my point of view towards life," Pandya said. "Perspective and priorities have changed, and it brought a lot of calmness inside me."Pandya's transformation as a father has been evident in his approach to the game. Despite facing criticism for his form and fitness, he has remained focused and determined. His inclusion in India's T20 World Cup squad is a testament to his resilience and the belief that selectors have in his abilities.India captain Rohit Sharma and chief selector Ajit Agarkar have expressed confidence in Pandya's ability to regain his form and play a crucial role in the upcoming World Cup. Agarkar noted that Pandya's fitness and versatility give the team balance and options.Pandya's journey as a father began in 2020 when he welcomed his son, Agastya, with actress Natasa Stankovic. The experience has brought him immense joy and fulfillment."Getting married, becoming a father, it's been very special," Pandya said. "At the end of the day, you know that when you go back to your family and loved ones, they are always there for you."Pandya's transformation as a father is a reminder of the power of family and the importance of finding balance in life. His story serves as an inspiration to others who are navigating the challenges and rewards of parenthood.