The Sharjah Warriorz have pulled off a major coup ahead of the inaugural ILT20 Player Auction by roping in veteran Indian wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik. The seasoned campaigner replaces Sri Lankan star Kusal Mendis in the squad coached by former South African stalwart JP Duminy.
For over two decades, Karthik has been one of the sharpest cricketing minds, particularly in the shorter formats. His résumé is decorated with some of the sport’s most significant honours — from being part of India’s 2007 T20 World Cup-winning squad and the 2013 ICC Champions Trophy triumph, to lifting the IPL trophy with the Mumbai Indians in 2013. His experience and versatility are expected to bring fresh strength to the Warriorz setup.
Karthik, who recently served as part of the leadership group and batting coach at Royal Challengers Bengaluru, was instrumental in their maiden IPL title win in 2025. Interestingly, during his stint with RCB, he worked closely with big-hitting Tim David, who will now be his teammate once again at Sharjah. The reunion could prove vital as Warriorz look to bolster their middle order with firepower and calmness under pressure.
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Known for his aggressive finishing skills, Karthik has carved a reputation as one of T20 cricket’s finest late-order hitters. Whether launching sixes into the stands or manoeuvring gaps with surgical precision, his never-say-die approach makes him a genuine match-winner. With 7,437 runs from 412 T20 matches, including 35 fifties at a strike rate of 136.66, his numbers speak volumes. In Indian colours, he has turned out in 60 T20Is, scoring at a brisk strike rate of 142.61.
🚨 DINESH KARTHIK TO SHARJAH 🚨
– Sharjah Warriorz has signed Dinesh Karthik for the new ILT20 Season. 💥 pic.twitter.com/uEyUDC1SFk
— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) September 30, 2025
Sharjah Warriorz will count on his wealth of experience as he joins forces not only with Tim David but also with Sikandar Raza, fresh off an ILT20 title win with the Dubai Capitals. Together with captain Tim Southee, Johnson Charles, Tom Kohler-Cadmore, and USA pacer Saurabh Netravalkar, the squad looks more balanced and dangerous than ever.
Karthik expressed his delight at the move, calling it a dream come true: “I am very excited to be joining Sharjah Warriorz. They are a young team with big ambitions, and I am happy to contribute. Sharjah is an iconic venue, and to be part of this franchise is truly special.”
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Head coach JP Duminy echoed those sentiments: “Dinesh Karthik is not just an explosive batter but also a brilliant thinker of the game. His presence will not only boost our batting but also inspire our youngsters.” Adding to the praise, Warriorz COO Kshemal Waingankar highlighted Karthik’s value: “Dinesh is a legend of Indian white-ball cricket. His professionalism, energy, and ability to finish games make him a priceless addition.”
As the ILT20 Season 4 approaches, the inclusion of Karthik could be a turning point for Sharjah Warriorz — blending experience, leadership, and explosive batting into their campaign.
