Dinesh Karthik has been quite an intriguing cricketer, even at 39 being called into SA20. The wk-batter has featured for India in across 180 international matches and has been one of the greatest players in franchise-level competitive cricket, now on the verge of making his debut in the SA20. Having played in over 17 IPL seasons, the ex-Tamil Nadu captain has featured for 6 different IPL franchises.
A month or so back, Dinesh Karthik, who had announced his retirement from all forms of competitive cricket after IPL 2024, was brought back into the game by Royal Challengers Bangalore, who named him their mentor and batting coach as well for the upcoming season of the IPL.
The Challenger’s director of cricket, Mo Bobat, made the official announcement to the press, where he repeatedly claimed Dinesh Karthik’s excellence in the shortest format of the game. The team management wanted to use his vast experience in the game to lead RCB to their long-awaited title triumph.
Now, after months of being announced for the coaching role with his IPL franchise, he was also seen as a commentator for Sky Sports covering the Hundred competition. His all-round excellence is well portrayed.
Recently, the Royals director of cricket, Kumara Sangakara, said how useful Karthik could be for the Paarl Royals, especially with his vast experience and caliber. For him, age seems just a number, as he has been the IPL’s fittest player, having missed only 2 matches over 17 seasons.
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For Karthik, this is an experience of a lifetime, as he recalls his amazing days spent playing cricket in South Africa for the Indian national team. The BCCI allows only retired players to play in franchise-level competitions outside India, and hence Karthik will be the first ever Indian player to represent India in the SA20.
Dinesh Karthik said in his Press statement after signing the deal with SA20 franchise Paarl Royals
“Even though I didn’t have the chance to represent the Royals in the IPL, to me it was always a franchise setup and environment that was very attractive as a player. I am delighted to be joining the Paarl Royals team which oozes a lot of experience, quality and potential. I am certainly looking forward to joining the group and contributing to what should be an exciting season.”
