Dinesh Karthik, one of the most experienced and versatile players in the Indian Premier League (IPL). He has decided to end his IPL career after the 2024 season, according to multiple reports. The 38-year-old wicketkeeper-batter, who is currently playing for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), will also take a call on his international future soon.
Karthik has been a part of the IPL since its inception in 2008 and has represented six different franchises.
He is one of the seven players who have played in every season of the IPL so far. Along with MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan, Wriddhiman Saha and Manish Pandey.
Dinesh Karthik’s IPL Journey
Karthik’s IPL journey began with:
- Delhi Daredevils ( now Delhi Capitals 2008-2014)
- Kings XI Punjab (now Punjab Kings – 2011)
- Mumbai Indians (2012-2013)
- Gujarat Lions (2016-2017)
- Kolkata Knight Riders (2018-2021)
- Royal Challengers Bangalore (2015, 2022-present)
He had his best season in 2022. He scored 330 runs in 16 matches at an average of 55 and a strike-rate of 183.33. And playing the role of a finisher for RCB. He also earned a spot in the Indian squad for the 2022 T20 World Cup in Australia. Where he played three matches.
However, Dinesh Karthik had a poor 2023 IPL. He has scored just 140 runs overall with an average of just over 11. Also, he stepped down as the captain of Kolkata Knight Riders midway through the season, handing over the reins to Eoin Morgan.
He is likely to play his last IPL match in May 2024, when the 17th edition of the tournament concludes.
Dinesh Karthik played total 240 matches in the IPL. He has scored 4516 runs at an average of 26, striking at over 132 and 20 half-centuries.
Also, he is the second-highest wicketkeeper in terms of dismissals (133) and stumpings (36) in the IPL, behind Dhoni. He has also captained two teams: Delhi Daredevils (as a stand-in) and Kolkata Knight Riders (for three seasons).
Karthik’s decision to retire from the IPL is also influenced by his international career. Which has been inconsistent and overshadowed by the presence of Dhoni and other wicketkeeper-batters.
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Dinesh Karthik’s International Journey
Karthik made his international debut in 2004 against Australia in Tests and England in ODIs. He has played 26 Tests, 94 ODIs and 60 T20Is for India, scoring 1025, 1752 and 686 runs respectively. He has also effected 57 catches and 6 stumpings in Tests. And 86 catches and 14 stumpings in ODIs, and 30 catches and 6 stumpings in T20Is.
Dinesh was a member of the team that won both the inaugural 2007 T20 World Cup and the 2013 ICC Champions Trophy.
He made his maiden Test century against Bangladesh. He was India’s leading scorer in their Test tour of England in 2007. It helping India win their first series in England in 21 years.
He also played a memorable knock of 29 not out off 8 balls, including a last-ball six. Its help India won the Nidahas Trophy final against Bangladesh in 2018.
Dinesh Karthik’s Faced Bad Phases
However, Karthik has also faced several phases of being dropped and recalled. As he failed to cement his place in the Indian team. He has not played for India since the 2019 ODI World Cup in England. Where he scored just 14 runs in three innings.
He has also been overlooked for the upcoming T20 World Cup in India. As India have preferred Rishabh Pant, KL Rahul and Ishan Kishan as their wicketkeeping options.
Karthik, who is also the captain of Tamil Nadu in domestic cricket. It’s expected to make a final decision on his international future soon.
Dinesh Karthik has recently ventured into commentary and has received positive feedback for his insights and analysis. He has also expressed his interest in coaching and mentoring young players in the future.
Karthik’s retirement from the IPL will mark the end of an era for one of the most prolific and versatile players in the league’s history. He will be remembered for his skills, passion and professionalism, as well as his contributions to Indian cricket. He will also leave behind a legacy of being a team player, a leader and a mentor for many youngsters.