Veteran Indian opener Shikhar Dhawan issued an eye-catching response after the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced India's squad for the upcoming edition of the ICC World Cup on Tuesday. Two-time champions India will host the One Day International (ODI) World Cup for the first time since MS Dhoni and Co. lifted the famous trophy at home back in 2011. Under the leadership of Rohit Sharma, India will aim to end its trophyless run in ICC events.

Deemed surplus to requirements in the World Cup year, Dhawan was earlier considered an integral part of India's leadership group. Following the arrival of young openers Shubman Gill and Ishan Kishan on the international scene, Dhawan took a backseat and his mediocre run in ODIs eventually triggered his ouster from the national squad. Averaging only 34.40, Dhawan had a strike rate of 74.21 last year.

With India announcing its squad for the World Cup on Tuesday, Dhawan extended his support to his former teammates in the national team. Sharing a special message on X (formerly known as Twitter), the 37-year-old backed Rohit and Co. to win the World Cup on home soil. "Congratulations to my fellow team mates & friends chosen to represent India in the WC 2023 tournament! With the prayers and support of 1.5 billion people, you carry our hopes and dreams. May you bring the cup back home and make us proud! Go all out, Team India! #ChakDePhatte #WorldCup," the Indian cricketer said. Dhawan's message became an instant hit among the fans on social media.

Rahul's void was filled by Ishan Kishan, who played a sublime knock of 82 against Pakistan in India's Asia Cup opener. Rahul and Kishan were retained by the selectors in India's squad while Tilak Verma and Prasidh Krishna were dropped for the World Cup. Rahul's backup at the Asia Cup, power-hitter Sanju Samson was also not named in India's World Cup squad.

(With inputs from agencies)