Former Indian cricketer Dinesh Karthik has come up with his feelings about in-form Karun Nair’s chance for the Indian national cricket team in the upcoming ODIs, including the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 in Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

The 33-year-old Indian cricketer Karun Nair is in dream form with the bat in the domestic One-Day tournament, the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2024-25. With the help of five centuries and one half-century, including four successive centuries, Nair is leading the most runs chart of the tournament with 752 in seven innings with an average of 752.00 and a strike rate of 125.96. His batting has helped Vidarbha reach the Final of the competition. 

In 2016, Nair made his ODI debut during the Zimbabwe tour and played only two ODIs, scoring seven and 39 runs. He also made his Test debut in the same year at Mohali, when England toured India. In his third Test innings, which was also his third Test, Nair recorded a triple century at Chennai as he scored 303 not out against England. After Virender Sehwag’s two triple centuries, Nair became the second Indian batter to record a triple hundred in Test cricket. However, he couldn’t reach 30 runs in the other six Test innings as the right-handed batter played his last Test against Australia at Dharamsala in March 2017. Soon, he was out of the limelight but returned this year with his unstoppable batting form in the 50-over format. 

Dinesh Karthik praised Nair for his outstanding form with the bat. Karthik also hailed another forgotten Indian Test opener Mayank Agarwal, who is the second-leading run-scorer in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy 2024-25 with 619 runs in nine innings (average 103.16), hitting four centuries and one half-century. Just like Vidarbha skipper Nair, the 33-year-old Karnataka captain Agarwal has also led his team to the tournament Final.

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It’s coming at a stage when the Indian ODI setup is almost ready to go: Dinesh Karthik

However, Karthik feels that it is too late for Nair and Agarwal, while the Indian team is set for their restart in the ODI format. 

Karthik told Cricbuzz, “Karun Nair, it’s been unreal to see the form that you’ve been in. Even Mayank Agarwal has been in some really good form. But the beauty is, it’s coming at a stage when the Indian ODI setup is almost ready to go. There can’t be too many changes.”.

“Yes, it’s very tempting to bring a Karun Nair into the setup, and I think he has earned the right to be part of the talks.”

I don’t think he’ll make it to the Champions Trophy squad: Dinesh Karthik about Karun Nair

Although Karthik doesn’t feel Nair’s presence in the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025, starting on February 19, he still hopes for the best result. 

The former Indian wicketkeeper-batter added, “But I don’t think he’ll make it to the Champions Trophy squad. But if he keeps going like this, why not? A form batter like that who plays fast and spin well, he’s a gun player, and I’m very happy for him.”

Age can play a major factor for Nair as the Indian team will grow to focus on the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2027, while he will be close to 36 years old.

Former Indian cricketer Dinesh Karthik feels that the present Indian head coach Gautam Gambhir is under pressure in his early days due to recent negative results. Karthik talked about how the head coach can settle the situation. 

Gautam Gambhir, the former national teammate of Dinesh Karthik, has taken the coaching challenge of the Indian team after their ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 trophy win under the coaching of Rahul Dravid. 

See Also: Bumrah to Miss Champions Trophy Group Stage? Selectors Await Fitness Updates

It's never easy to fill those shoes: Dinesh Karthik on coach Rahul Dravid replacement

Although the Gambhir-coaching Indian team won the home Test series against Bangladesh comfortably by 2-0 after a successful T20I series whitewash (3-0) and losing an ODI series in the Sri Lanka tour (2-0), they faced a historic whitewash defeat in the home Test against New Zealand (by 3-0) and also lost the five-match Test series Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 in Australia by 3-1. The team selections and batters’ performances in the recent Test series have been criticised heavily.

Recently, Dinesh Karthik talked about Gambhir’s coaching. He told Cricbuzz, "The Bangladesh series was a success, and I think post that, things have gone downhill for him in Tests."

While the early situation is very tough for Gambhir and Team India, Karthik believes that the former Indian opener needs some time, as it was never easy to replace the successful coach Rahul Dravid. 

Karthik said, "You've got to give Gambhir some slack. He has come in at a very tough time post the successful regime of Rahul Dravid. It's never easy to fill those shoes.” 

Karthik also pointed out that while coach Gambhir had a rough start in the ODI and Test formats, the ODI format was too small, as India played only three ODIs in 2024. Meanwhile, under his coaching, Team India impressed in the T20I format, both against the hosts Sri Lanka and the visitors Bangladesh. Karthik praises Gambhir for guiding the youngsters in the shorter format.

The pressure is mounting

Talking about Gambhir’s impact as the coach, Karthik feels that the correlation between the coach's vision and the players' mindset is important to build up a strong team. While Karthik also understands the limited opportunities for a coach during a match, he needs to work in the proper manner to make the dressing room positive. 

Karthik finished with, "The pressure is mounting. All he can do is give them freedom, give them the security they want in the dressing room, and try to keep a very nice and safe even sort of place there. But when the player walks out, he has to find a way to counter his demons and the opposition's questions."

2024 was replete with ups and downs for people who love Indian cricket. India didn't win the ICC ODI World Cup 2023, but they finally got their hands on the ICC T20 World Cup 2024 trophy, with Rohit Sharma steering the team. This year, three iconic T20 players stopped playing, and more than seven Indian players stopped playing for their country at the international level.

Let's dive into who these players are.

1. Saurabh Tiwary (Retired from all formats)

Saurabh Tiwary, the man who swung his bat with his left hand and even scored 49 runs in three matches for India's ODI team in 2010, decided he had enough of professional cricket right after the 2023-24 Ranji Trophy season wrapped up in February 2024. Tiwary made this choice because his performance wasn't to par at the local level anymore Tiwary, who had been part of the cricket world for 17 years materializing on the scene notably with Jharkhand in first-class cricket and remaining in the IPL till 2021 announced in 2024 that his cricket-playing days were over. That person who played for India in a few games said he is finished with playing professional cricket after being on the fields for nearly two decades.

2. Varun Aaron (Retired from all formats)

Varun Aaron from Jharkhand was very quick at bowling with his right arm. Aaron said goodbye to cricket at the close of the 2023-24 Ranji Trophy season. People thought he was going to be great because he was very quick but he was often injured. Aaron managed to play in nine tests and nine ODIs for India between 2011 and 2015, and during that time, he took 29 wickets when playing against other countries.

ALSO READ:Gavaskar Backs Nitish Reddy Over Hardik Pandya as a Better Test Cricketer

3. Dinesh Karthik (Retired from all formats)

Dinesh Karthik retired from all forms of cricket international, domestic, and even the IPL after the IPL 2024 wrapped up. Karthik put an end to his impressive career. Starting way back in September 2004 playing for India, 2022 saw his last game during the ICC T20 World Cup in Australia. Through it all, Karthik played in 26 Tests, 94 ODIs, and 60 T20 games.Karthik did not simply play he scored a total of 3,463 runs that includes a century and 17 half-centuries.

4. Kedar Jadhav (Retired from all formats)

Kedar June 2024, Kedar Jadhav said he's retiring from all kinds of cricket; this person, who was 39, played several games for India - 73 ODIs and 9 T20Is to be exact. Jadhav was a solid player in the middle of the lineup who could also add some good spin bowling to the mix, catching 27 wickets in ODIs with an average score of 42. On top of that, he demonstrated his skills in 95 IPL games for five different teams, performing well both when hitting the ball and when throwing the ball.

5.Virat Kohli (Retired from T20Is)

In his last game for India in the tournament against South Africa, Virat Kohli shared that he was retiring from T20Is. Virat Kohli made a very big announcement after India won the ICC T20 World Cup 2024 he was stepping down from T20I cricket. Starting his T20I journey in 2010 against Zimbabwe, Kohli had a great series of performances. Over his career, he participated in 125 T20Is, scoring 4,188 runs, which averages out to 48.69 this includes hitting one hundred and 38 half-centuries. Kohli is considered a legendary cricketer around the world.

6. Rohit Sharma (Retired from T20Is)

After taking India to win the ICC T20 World Cup 2024, Rohit Sharma said goodbye to T20Is. This includes an amazing five hundreds, 32 fifties, and an incredible 205 sixes, setting the record for the most in T20Is. Many achievements made him the premier run-maker in T20I history when he decided to stop playing.

7. Ravindra Jadeja (Retired from T20Is)

Ravindra Jadeja retired from T20I cricket post the 2024 ICC T20 World Cup, and he was an essential player for India for over ten years. Even though he wasn't the best in the tournament, his role playing both as a batter and a bowler was vitally important for India. Starting his journey in 2009, he participated in 74 T20Is, took 54 wickets with a decent economy rate of 7.13, and notched up 515 runs.

8. Shikhar Dhawan (Retired from all formats)

Shikhar Dhawan, a key player in India's win at the 2013 ICC Champions Trophy, said goodbye to cricket in all forms, the IPL included, in August 2024. Dhawan was last seen playing for India in December 2022. Dhawan's journey in international cricket began in 2010 and wrapped up in 2022; throughout his career, he played in 34 Tests, 167 ODIs, and 68 T20Is.Dhawan scored a whopping 10,867 runs, with an average of 42.28. Also, he hit 24 hundreds and 55 fifties.

9. Barinder Sran (Retired from all formats)

Barinder Sran, who is a left-arm pace bowler from Punjab, chose to hang up his boots when he was 31 years old. When he first appeared on the international stage for India during a T20 match against Zimbabwe in June 2016, he did very well at the beginning bagging 4 wickets and giving up just 10 runs. This debut is still the top first-game showing by any Indian player in T20Is. Despite this spectacular beginning, he didn't become as famous or successful as everyone thought he would in international cricket. Over his career, he got to play in six One-Day Internationals (ODIs) and a couple of T20 International matches, catching a total of 13 wickets.

10. Wriddhiman Saha (Retired from all formats)

Wriddhiman Saha, the person who kept wicket and hit runs for India, decided he was done playing cricket at every level on November 3, 2024. His plan was to stop playing cricket after the 2024-25 Ranji Trophy season finished. Saha had his moments playing 40 tests and nine ODIs from 2010 to 2021, where he knocked 1,353 runs in tests which even included conjoining three whole centuries. Despite that, superstars like MS Dhoni and Rishabh Pant often took the spotlight, leaving Saha's last match for India in 2021, playing against New Zealand at Wankhede Stadium.

11. Siddarth Kaul (Retired from all formats)

Indian bowler Siddarth Kaul announced his retirement on November 28, 2024. Kaul, 34, represented India in three ODIs and three T20Is, taking four wickets in T20Is but none in ODIs.

12. Ravichandran Ashwin (Retired from all formats)

After the third test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Brisbane in 2024-25, Ravichandran Ashwin, who plays spin-bowling all-rounder for India, said he's retiring.  Ashwin first played in 2010 and has been in 106 tests, 116 ODIs, and 65 T20Is since then. Mr. Ashwin has gotten 537 players out in tests, 156 in ODIs, and 72 in T20Is. Ashwin didn't only throw -- he could bat, too, earning 3,503 runs in tests, including hitting six centuries and fourteen fifties. Something exceptionally wonderful about him?Ashwin's tied with Muttiah Muralitharan for getting the most Man of the Series awards in test cricket, which is 11 times.

2024 has indeed been a year of significant retirements in Indian cricket, marking the end of an era for some of the game's greatest players.

Former Indian wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik has made a compelling case for including Varun Chakaravarthy in India's squad for the 2025 Champions Trophy. The seasoned "mystery spinner," who has shown exceptional form since his return to the international T20 scene, recently delivered an outstanding five-wicket haul in the second T20I against South Africa. Karthik believes that India would be missing out on a valuable asset if they overlook Chakaravarthy for this major tournament.

Karthik highlights Chakaravarthy’s remarkable comeback

Dinesh Karthik has been closely following Varun Chakaravarthy’s journey, having played alongside him for both Tamil Nadu and the Kolkata Knight Riders in the IPL. Karthik emphasized the spinner's impressive growth and the vital role he could play in India’s Champions Trophy campaign. Since his return to the national squad in the T20I series against Bangladesh, Chakaravarthy has grabbed attention with his bowling, finishing as a joint-highest wicket-taker in that series.

Reflecting on the journey of the 33-year-old, Karthik took to social media to emphasize the impact Chakaravarthy could make if chosen for the Champions Trophy, stating, "If India don't pick VARUN CHAKRAVARTHY for the Champions Trophy, then they are making a grave error. Outstanding bowler he is turning out to be."

If india don't pick VARUN CHAKRAVARTHY for the Champions Trophy , then they are making a grave error

Outstanding Bowler he is turning out to be #INDvSA #CricketTwitter #Cricket

— DK (@DineshKarthik) November 10, 2024

Chakaravarthy’s five-for against South Africa strengthen his case

In the recent T20I match against South Africa at St George's Park, Chakaravarthy exhibited his ability to deliver under pressure, claiming five wickets for just 17 runs. Despite India's struggles with the bat, where they managed a modest total of 124/6, Chakaravarthy’s remarkable spell nearly swung the game in India’s favor. His introduction in the sixth over dismantled South Africa's batting order, with the Proteas losing wickets consistently.

Ultimately, Chakaravarthy’s stellar performance couldn’t prevent India from a narrow defeat, as South Africa chased down the target with three wickets remaining, thanks to an impressive 42-run eighth-wicket partnership between Tristan Stubbs (47*) and Gerald Coetzee (19*). Chakaravarthy’s impact, however, underscored his value as a game-changer, reinforcing Karthik’s call for his inclusion in the Champions Trophy squad.

See Also: ICC Champions Trophy 2025: PCB reportedly wants clarification from ICC about BCCI's decision

Karthik's plea on behalf of Chakaravarthy reflects a belief in his unique skill set and the balance he could bring to India’s bowling attack. Given his ability to adapt to various conditions and his knack for taking wickets in the middle overs, Chakaravarthy could be an asset to India's Champions Trophy aspirations. Karthik’s endorsement further positions the spinner as a potential X-factor for India, particularly in high-stakes matches.

India’s recent defeats against New Zealand have spotlighted the patchy form of its cricket icons, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, especially as the team gears up for a challenging tour of Australia. With Kohli and Rohit both underperforming, questions arise: if cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar could play domestic cricket at 40, why aren’t these greats doing the same?

Despite holding high batting averages, India’s top-order has struggled, leading to two consecutive losses that handed New Zealand a 2-0 lead with one match to go. Kohli and Rohit’s absence from the domestic Duleep Trophy season opener has further drawn fans’ frustration as they question the duo’s preparations for the international season. Meanwhile, former Indian cricketer Dinesh Karthik emphasizes the value of domestic cricket in regaining form, especially given Kohli's struggle against spin.

Kohli’s spin struggles raise concerns

Kohli’s battle with spin continues to affect his performance in Test cricket, with statistics highlighting his vulnerability. Over his last 50 innings since 2021, he has been dismissed 24 times by spinners, averaging a modest 33.38. His last Test century came in July 2023, and with only 88 runs from his last four innings—70 of which were from a single knock—his performance against New Zealand’s spinners has raised concerns. Karthik, in an interview with Cricbuzz, noted Kohli’s lack of runs, particularly against spinners, and suggested domestic cricket as a way to prepare for the nuanced challenges of international matches. "Virat Kohli has not had it easy, the series has not been good to him, three out of four innings, he has disappointed. It's obviously a recurring partner where spinners have troubled him, and I think he will go and figure out what he needs to do to come out stronger. He is a man, who is searching for answers. When you reach that level of genius and super stardom, you will be thrown challenges and here is another challenge. India likes to play on pitches that aids spin, what is his gameplan?"  Karthik remarked.

"We all know what he is capable of, this series was not meant to be. Like the fans have been saying, he has not done it for a long time and that we cannot run away from. We don't want to sugarcoat it because we want to be as objective in assessing any player, any performance, at the moment. Virat Kohli's Test record in the last 2-3 years, has not been great against spin," said Karthik.

Domestic cricket: A path to revival?

Fans are now drawing comparisons to Sachin Tendulkar, who played his last Ranji Trophy match at 40 before his retirement from international cricket in 2013. Kohli last appeared in the Ranji Trophy in 2012, while Rohit’s final match in the elite red-ball tournament was during the 2015-16 season. Karthik's comments resonate with fans who believe that a stint in domestic cricket could be beneficial. He pointed out that while Kohli remains one of India’s most skilled players, his form in the Test arena has lagged in recent years.

See Also: Gary Kirsten likely to quit as the white-ball coach of Pakistan

Dinesh Karthik’s insights have revived the conversation on the importance of domestic cricket for even the most accomplished players, suggesting that Kohli and Rohit’s return to local matches could be a key step in reviving their Test performance. As the third Test against New Zealand approaches, Kohli will aim to counter his spin challenges, looking to regain form and restore fans' faith in his batting.

James Anderson, the legendary England fast bowler, bid farewell to international cricket on Friday, July 12, 2024, after his side thrashed West Indies in the first Test match at Lord’s. Playing in his 188th Test match, Anderson retired as the most successful pace bowler in the history of Test cricket with 704 wickets, just four shy of second-placed Shane Warne.

The cricketing world paid tribute to Anderson’s remarkable career, with wishes pouring in from all corners, including a heartfelt message from the legendary Sachin Tendulkar.

Career highlights

James Anderson’s career is adorned with numerous milestones and records that speak volumes about his skill and longevity. He debuted in 2003 and played 188 Tests, amassing 704 wickets. Anderson holds the record for the most wickets by a fast bowler in Test cricket, surpassing legends like Glenn McGrath and Wasim Akram.

See Also: Replacing Jadeja in T20Is? India star shares honest thoughts

The final test match

In his final Test match, England dominated the West Indies, winning by an innings and 114 runs. Anderson played a crucial role, taking four wickets, including a three-wicket haul in the first innings. Despite the stellar debut performance of Gus Atkinson, who picked up 12 wickets, Anderson’s presence on the field was significant, leading his team one last time.

Tributes and farewell

The cricketing community showered Anderson with tributes on social media. Fellow cricketers, former teammates, and fans expressed their admiration and gratitude for his contributions to the game. The respect and love for Anderson were evident, highlighting his impact on cricket.

Sachin Tendulkar’s Tribute

Among the many tributes, Sachin Tendulkar’s message stood out. Tendulkar, an old foe and one of the greatest batter Anderson has bowled against, wrote a heartfelt note on his ‘X’ account. He praised Anderson’s action, speed, accuracy, swing, and fitness, acknowledging the inspiration Anderson has been for generations. Tendulkar wished Anderson a wonderful life with his family, away from the rigors of professional cricket.

Anderson’s impact on Cricket

James Anderson has left an indelible mark on cricket. His exceptional skill and dedication have inspired countless young cricketers. Anderson’s contributions to England’s success, including multiple Ashes victories, have made him a beloved figure in English cricket.

James Anderson’s retirement marks the end of an era for English cricket. His career, filled with remarkable achievements and memorable moments, stands as a testament to his greatness. As he bows out, the cricketing world celebrates his contributions and looks forward to seeing the impact of his legacy on future generations.

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.”

SEE ALSO: Rahul Dravid gets the perfect send-off from the team, says, “I tried my best whenever I played”

“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.

The Indian team had their best fielder medal ceremony like always after a comfortable win over England in the semi-final of the T20 World Cup 2024. This time, former India cricketer turned commentator Dinesh Karthik did the honours.

However, this edition of the World Cup has seen many greats of the game present the medal to the Indian players. And, Karthik received a loud cheer from the Indian players as he entered the Indian team’s dressing room. Karthik cracked a joke too that left everyone laughing as he addressed T Dilip, India’s fielding coach as well.

Watch the video here:

SEE ALSO: Rohit Sharma urges US Police to go easy with the pitch invader during IND vs BAN warm-up match

Dinesh Karthik praises the Indian team

Dinesh Karthik also applauded the Indian team for their performance in the tournament so far as they have reached the final of the T20 World Cup 2024 by beating England as well.

“First of all, I feel Dilip had set up such a high standard. Who was given these awards? Sachin Vivian Richards. Buggy Cam, Spider Cam. I think you’ve downgraded by calling me here the award. The only thing left was UFO and aliens everybody else had handed this award. So I mean, from where do I start. Obviously, you guys have done phenomenally well to be here. So congratulations,” Karthik said in a video posted by BCCI on Instagram.

“Two years ago, same game against the same opponent. I remember how we were in the dressing room on a cool night in Adelaide. Things did not go away, but from there to where? On the beach. Today, it’s just been great to watch some very good decisions along the way and in picking the team itself. We started there, but it’s been outstanding to see it’s been outstanding to see how well you’ll have played,” he concluded.

Just a week after retiring from the Indian Premier League (IPL), Dinesh Karthik officially called time for his entire cricket career. In an emotional post on social media, Karthik confirmed his retirement, saying, “I put my playing days behind me.”

His final professional game was the IPL 2024 eliminator match against Rajasthan Royals, a poignant end to a storied career. As the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) players went around the stadium thanking fans, Karthik received a heartfelt embrace from Virat Kohli and a guard of honour from his teammates, marking a touching farewell.

See Also: Know everything about India’s 2024 T20 World Cup warm-up match

Decision to Retire from All Forms of Cricket

In his social media post, Karthik reflected on his decision to retire and expressed gratitude for the love and support he received. He acknowledged the role of fans, teammates, coaches, and his family in his journey. Karthik mentioned that while he had the physical ability to continue playing, he was not mentally ready to extend his career further.

Karthik also extended a huge vote of thanks to his supporters during the long journey.

“I’d like to thank all my coaches, captains, selectors, teammates and members of the support staff who have made this long journey pleasant and enjoyable. Among the millions that play the sport in our country, I consider myself among the lucky few to have had the chance to represent the nation, and luckier still to have earned the goodwill of so many fans and friends.

“My parents have been pillars of strength and support over all these years, and I wouldn’t be what I am without their blessings. I also owe plenty to Dipika (Pallikal), herself a professional sportsperson who often put her career on hold to walk my journey with me.

“Of course, to all the fans and followers of our great game, a massive thank you! Cricket and cricketers wouldn’t be the same without your support and good wishes.”

Early Career and Rise to Prominence

Dinesh Karthik’s cricket journey began in domestic cricket, where his talent quickly shone through. Making his international debut in 2004, he initially struggled to cement his place in the Indian team. However, his perseverance paid off, and he soon became known for his agility behind the stumps and his versatility with the bat.

International Career Highlights

Karthik’s international career is studded with key performances, particularly in One Day Internationals (ODIs) and T20 Internationals (T20Is). His memorable innings, including match-winning knocks in crucial games, have left an indelible mark. Karthik played pivotal roles in several ICC tournaments, contributing to India’s successes on numerous occasions.

Role in Indian Premier League (IPL)

Overall, Karthik represented six IPL teams. Starting with Daredevils (2008-14), he moved to Kings XI Punjab (now Punjab Kings – 2011), Mumbai Indians (2012-13), Gujarat Lions (2016-17), Kolkata Knight Riders (2018-21) and RCB (2015, 2022-present). Overall in 256 matches, Karthik has scored 4816 runs at an average of nearly 26, striking at over 135 with 22 half centuries. As a keeper, Karthik is second on list behind Dhoni in overall dismissals (172) as well as stumpings (36).

An established captain in Tamil Nadu, his state in domestic cricket, Karthik has also led in the IPL – on six occasions as a stand-in skipper at Daredevils, and 37 times between 2018 and 2020 at KKR before he stepped down. Overall, his captaincy record reads: 21 wins, 21 losses and one tied match.

The IPL 2024 Farewell

Karthik’s final IPL game against Rajasthan Royals was a momentous occasion. As he took off his gloves and acknowledged the fans, an emotional scene unfolded. Virat Kohli’s embrace and the guard of honour from his teammates highlighted the respect and admiration he garnered over the years. The fans’ applause and the team’s tribute underscored the impact he had on and off the field.

The Emotional Farewell Ceremony

The farewell ceremony for Karthik was a fitting tribute to his illustrious career. The RCB players and fans joined in celebrating his achievements, creating a memorable and emotional send-off. The guard of honour and the fans’ enthusiastic participation underscored the respect and admiration he commanded.

Post-Retirement Plans

Looking ahead, Karthik has expressed interest in exploring various roles within cricket, including administration and commentary. His experience and insights make him a valuable potential coach or mentor, capable of guiding the next generation of cricketers.

Veteran Team India wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik has shared that he is perfectly fit to play professional cricket for another three years as well. However, he feels he wouldn’t be able to cope with the mental side now. With Karthik unlikely to play for India again, he also retired from his IPL career recently. He also played his final IPL match this year against the Rajasthan Royals in the Eliminator at the Narendra Modi Stadium as well.

Dinesh Karthik had a good season in IPL 2024

Speaking to Cricbuzz, Karthik said: “I think I am physically very much prepared to play for another three years. Especially with the Impact Player rule, it becomes that much easier. Touch wood, I have never missed a game because of an injury through my three decades. I’ve been blessed that way. I was never worried about my body or my fitness. It was all about the mental side of things, whether I’ll be able to push as much in the lead-up to the tournament, whether if I don’t play as many matches, will I be okay with it.”

When he was asked what kept him motivated after a poor IPL season last year, Karthik said that he has always been “extremely motivated.” He hasn’t missed a single season of IPL since its inception in 2008. With 257 matches, he is the joint (along with Rohit Sharma) second-most capped player in IPL history after MS Dhoni as well.

ALSO READ: Zaheer Khan shares MS Dhoni’s plans after IPL 2024

“I am internally very, very motivated” – Dinesh Karthik

“I am internally very, very motivated. Intrinsically, extremely motivated and I’ve lived by the mantra that if you are the best, no one can stop you. I just believed if I get one chance, I should make the most of it. I never cribbed. I was always thinking like I got a chance but I missed it. I got a tournament here, but I probably could have done better in this match. And that kept me going,” he said.

Dinesh Karthik further shared that family functions have kept him busy amid the feeling of retirement and he also recalled how nervous he was before the IPL 2024 against CSK.

“I don’t think it’s sunk in yet. There’s lots happening in the house, there’s a couple of weddings and all so I’ve been pretty busy with that. It’s a tad bit emotional, a tad bit relief. In a way, I was mentally prepared for whenever it had to happen. But I was so much more prepared for 18th May. Once that part of the tournament was crossed, I was extremely elated and very, very happy and grateful. The 22nd came around pretty fast, but overall it was a mixed feeling of relief, emotion and the fact that it has all come to an end,” Dinesh Karthik concluded.