Former India and RCB wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik has been named as the new batting coach and mentor of the IPL franchise. They announced on Monday (July 1). The veteran had recently retired from all forms of the game after the conclusion of IPL 2024 as well.

However, Karthik was a part of the Indian squad that won the inaugural T20 World Cup back in 2007 and he has played every single edition of the IPL until his retirement as well. He has played with RCB from 2022-24 whereas he was a part of KKR before that. His stunning form as a finisher in the 2022 season saw him get picked in the Indian squad for the T20 World Cup in Australia as well.

Even though he had a mixed season in 2023, Karthik retired, scoring over 300 runs at a stellar strike rate of 187.36.

In a recent interview with Cricbuzz, Karthik said, “Coaching and broadcasting is what I’m thinking I’ll mix in the foreseeable future. It’s not as simple as it looks. But I must admit, a few of the players who’ve played in RCB itself are very keen to come and work with me in Chennai. So, that is a positive. It’s very exciting.”

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“I am eager to coach and mentor our batting group” – Dinesh Karthik

He further added: “Coaching at a professional level is incredibly exciting for me and is something I’m truly passionate about as a new chapter in my life. Hopefully, the breadth of my experiences as a player can contribute to the development of the group and bring added value.”

“I believe that cricket success hinges not only on technical proficiency but also on match intelligence and composure. I am eager to coach and mentor our batting group, helping them to not only refine their method but also to develop the keen match awareness needed to excel under pressure. It’s also great that I can continue my association with RCB as the franchise continues to move from strength to strength,” he again shared.

Meanwhile, RCB’s director of cricket Mo Bobat also expressed his happiness at the acquisition and excitement with this new move.

“DK is an excellent addition to our coaching group. He was thrilling to watch on the field, and I’m sure he will be just as impactful as a coach. His longevity and track record as a player speaks volumes about his skill and dedication. I know he will bring that same quality and commitment to this new professional chapter.

DK’s experiences across both international cricket and the IPL, make him a huge asset to RCB. I have no doubt that our players will benefit hugely from his expert support. As a player, DK demonstrated an elite mindset under pressure and a real drive to keep evolving his game. I’m looking forward to him instilling those same qualities and values into our players, and in particular, our batters. We have exciting times ahead and it’s great for us that we can retain DK’s involvement, as someone who knows what it takes to play for RCB and our special fans,” Bobat added.