Indian cricketer Shikhar Dhawan has announced his engagement, adding a new chapter in his life
Former Indian cricket opener Shikhar Dhawan has announced his engagement to Sophie Shine, an Irish product consultant, marking a joyful new chapter in his personal life. The announcement came on January 12, 2026, through a heartfelt Instagram post that quickly captured the attention of fans and the cricket fraternity alike.
The Engagement Announcement
Dhawan shared the happy news with his millions of followers through a touching photograph that prominently featured Sophie’s engagement ring. His caption resonated with warmth and gratitude: “From shared smiles to shared dreams. Grateful for the love, the blessings, and every good wish for our engagement as we choose togetherness forever.”
The post immediately went viral, flooding with congratulatory messages from fellow cricketers, celebrities, and fans from around the world.
How Their Love Story Began
The couple’s journey started years ago in Dubai, where they first met. What began as a friendship gradually turned into love over time. According to reports, they’ve been living together for over a year, building a strong foundation for their relationship away from the public eye.
Their relationship became public knowledge in May 2025 when both shared posts on social media. Sophie’s Instagram post featuring Dhawan with the caption “My love,” accompanied by a heart emoji, confirmed what many had been speculating. Since then, the couple has been more open about their relationship, sharing glimpses of their time together through reels and making joint appearances at various events.
Who Is Sophie Shine?
Sophie Shine is an accomplished professional currently based in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. She holds degrees in Marketing and Management from the Limerick Institute and Castleroy College in Ireland.
Professionally, Sophie serves as the Second Vice President at Northern Trust Corporation, a significant position that speaks to her expertise and capabilities in the corporate world. Beyond her corporate role, she has also taken on the responsibility of heading the Shikhar Dhawan Foundation, demonstrating her commitment to philanthropic work and her integration into Dhawan’s life and values.
Her Irish roots, combined with her professional achievements in the UAE, create an interesting international dimension to their relationship.
Wedding Speculation
While the couple has officially announced their engagement, there have been unconfirmed reports about their wedding plans. Some media outlets have speculated that the wedding ceremony might take place in the third week of February 2026 in the Delhi-NCR region, with a guest list including prominent figures from cricket and Bollywood.
However, it’s important to note that these remain rumors at this point. As of January 12, 2026, neither Dhawan nor Sophie has made any official statement confirming the wedding date or venue. Fans and well-wishers will need to wait for an official announcement from the couple regarding their wedding plans.
A Second Chance at Marriage
This engagement marks Dhawan’s second marriage. He was previously married to Aesha Mukherji (also spelled Ayesha Mukherjee in some reports), a Melbourne-based kickboxer and fitness enthusiast. The former couple shares a son named Zoravar, who remains an important part of Dhawan’s life.
Dhawan and Mukherji’s marriage ended in divorce in 2023, following what was reported to be a difficult and traumatic separation. The divorce proceedings were notably challenging, but Dhawan has since moved forward, focusing on both his professional commitments and personal happiness.
Looking Ahead
As Shikhar Dhawan embarks on this new innings in his personal life, the engagement represents more than just a commitment between two people. It symbolizes hope, new beginnings, and the possibility of finding happiness after difficult times.
Whether the wedding happens in February or later, attention will undoubtedly remain on this couple as they prepare to celebrate their union with family and friends. For now, Dhawan and Sophie are enjoying their engagement period, basking in the love and support from well-wishers around the world.
The former cricketer, known for his aggressive batting style and infectious smile on the field, seems to have found a perfect partner off the field—someone who complements his life and shares his vision for the future. As he wrote in his engagement announcement, they’ve truly chosen “togetherness forever.”
