Shikhar Dhawan, the veteran Indian opener, has finally opened up about his exit from the Indian team, revealing that he sensed the end of his career after Ishan Kishan's double century against Bangladesh in December 2022. Dhawan's last appearance for India was in that ODI series against Bangladesh.

Dhawan, known for his flamboyant stroke play and consistent performances in ICC tournaments, admitted that the rise of aggressive stroke-makers and power-hitters signaled a shift in the team's strategy. In an interview with the Hindustan Times, Dhawan shared that he had an "inner voice" that told him his time was up when Kishan scored 210 off 131 balls in Chattogram.

"I was scoring lots of 50s, I didn't score a 100, but I scored lots of 70s," Dhawan said. "When Ishan Kishan scored that 200, my instinct told me, alright boy, this can be the end of your career. An inner voice came to me. And that's what happened".

Despite the looming end to his international career, Dhawan said he remained calm and composed. "Then I remember my friends came over to, you know, give me that emotional support. They thought that I would be very down. But I was chilling, I was enjoying," Dhawan said. He had seemingly made peace with the situation.

Dhawan's concerns about his future in the team also stemmed from the emergence of younger talent like Shubman Gill. Gill's performance in Tests and T20s, in addition to ODIs, meant he was more frequently in the coaches'view. Dhawan, by that time, was only playing ODIs. He recognized that Gill was naturally creating his own rhythm and aura.

While Kishan's double century may have been the turning point, Dhawan's exclusion from the 2021 T20 World Cup squad had already hinted at a change in direction. Although he captained a second-string Indian side in Sri Lanka, that series proved to be his last T20I appearance. Dhawan confessed that he "sort of knew" he wouldn't be selected for that World Cup, stating that he could sense it and didn't bother asking anyone for the reasons.

Dhawan's contribution to Indian cricket is undeniable. He played 167 ODIs, amassing 6,793 runs at an average of 44.1, including 17 centuries and 39 half-centuries. In 34 Test matches, he scored 2,315 runs at an average of 40.6, with 7 centuries and 5 half-centuries. His T20I record includes 1,759 runs in 68 matches, averaging 27.9 with 11 half-centuries. He was also part of the Indian team that won the 2013 ICC Champions Trophy in England.

Despite not receiving a formal farewell, Dhawan is fondly remembered for his energy, flair, and ability to perform in big games. He remains a popular figure and a key part of one of India's most formidable white-ball batting lineups.

In August 2023, Dhawan admitted to being "a bit shocked" when he wasn't selected for the Asian Games squad, as he had been expected to lead the team. Instead, Ruturaj Gaikwad was named captain. Despite the setback, Dhawan expressed his determination to make a comeback to the national team. He affirmed that he still enjoys training and the game, which remain within his control. He also stated he respects the decisions made by the selectors.

Dhawan has also stated that national security is more important than cricket, supporting the BCCI's decision not to play in Pakistan until terrorism is eradicated.