Dinesh Karthik, the seasoned Indian wicketkeeper-batter, is set to mark the culmination of his illustrious cricket career with a significant stint in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season, representing Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). Recent reports also suggest that Karthik is contemplating his future in international cricket, indicating a possible decision in the near future.
Karthik’s association with the IPL dates back to its inaugural edition in 2008, where he began his journey with the Delhi Daredevils, now known as Delhi Capitals. Remarkably, he shares the distinction of participating in every season since the league’s inception, alongside cricketing stalwarts like MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan, Wriddhiman Saha, and Manish Pandey.
Throughout his impressive 16-season tenure, Karthik has showcased remarkable consistency, missing only two matches. Joining RCB in 2022, he made an immediate impact with stellar performances, amassing 330 runs in 16 matches at an outstanding average of 55 and a striking strike rate of 183.33.
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While his contributions played a crucial role in RCB’s journey to the playoffs in 2022, subsequent seasons witnessed fluctuations, especially in 2023, where he struggled to replicate his earlier success, managing only 140 runs with an average just over 11.
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Dinesh Karthik will be playing his last IPL in 2024.
– One of the rare player to feature in every season of IPL is set to retire this year. pic.twitter.com/C7gnpjkI25
— Cric Point (@RealCricPoint) March 7, 2024
Karthik’s current stint with RCB is his second with the franchise, having previously represented them in 2015. Over the years, he has showcased his versatility by representing six IPL teams, including Delhi Daredevils, Kings XI Punjab (now Punjab Kings), Mumbai Indians, Gujarat Lions, Kolkata Knight Riders, and RCB.
With an impressive tally of 4516 runs in 240 matches at an average of nearly 26, along with 133 dismissals, including 36 stumpings, Karthik has etched his name as one of the stalwarts of the IPL.
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Beyond his on-field exploits, Karthik has smoothly transitioned into a new role in broadcasting. Since 2021, he has ventured into commentary, offering his insights during prestigious events such as the World Test Championship final and The Hundred. Currently engaged in commentary duties for the ongoing India-England Test series, Karthik has solidified his position as a respected voice in cricket broadcasting.
