As Royal Challengers Bengaluru got knocked out of the IPL 2024 Eliminator, it would probably mean the end for Dinesh Karthik’s cricket career. Karthik hinted he might have played his last Indian Premier League match after RCB lost the IPL 2024 Eliminator to Rajasthan on Wednesday. But there is no official announcement of retirement from the player yet.

However, Karthik took off his gloves and acknowledged the applause from the crowd after the heartbreaking defeat in the playoffs match at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

DK on his retirement plan

Dinesh Karthik, the seasoned wicketkeeper-batsman, had previously mentioned about the retirement from his cricketing career after the IPL 2024 season. Although he hasn’t officially announced his retirement, his demeanour during the Eliminator suggested otherwise.

See Also: Watch: Kohli shines on field with a brilliant run-out after scoring 8000 IPL runs

Meanwhile, Jio Cinema has already thanked Dinesh Karthik about the memories and shared a special poster on his IPL retirement.

An emotional response from crowd

As Karthik walked off the field amidst thunderous applause from the crowd at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, emotions ran high among fans and spectators. Moreover, one of the greatest finishers of IPL history, Dinesh Karthik also was seen receiving a Guard of Honour from his teammates.

Reflections on Karthik’s Career

Amid the IPL 2024 Eliminator against Rajasthan Royals, Dinesh Karthik etched his name in the annals of IPL history by becoming the second-most capped player in the league, alongside Rohit Sharma.

Early years

Dinesh Karthik’s IPL journey began with the inaugural season 2008 when he donned the Delhi Daredevils jersey. His early years laid the foundation for a remarkable career in the league.

He started his IPL career with Delhi Capitals and played for them from IPL 2008 to 2010. He moved to Punjab Kings for a year and represented Mumbai Indians in IPL 2012 and 2013. Karthik returned to Delhi for a year in 2014. He had a one-year stint with RCB in 2015. Karthik was part of Gujarat Lions in IPL 2016 and 2017. He was part of Kolkata Knight Riders from IPL 2018 to 2021. The wicketkeeper-batsman led KKR from IPL 2018 to the middle of 2020. He was replaced by Eoin Morgan

One Last Time

Ahead of the 2022 edition of the league, Dinesh Karthik was released by KKR and was available for the IPL Mega Auction. He was bought by RCB for INR 5.5 crore. In the IPL 2022 mega-auction, Karthik returned to the Royal Challengers Bengaluru camp, marking his second stint with the franchise. His role as a finisher proved instrumental in RCB’s campaign.

In IPL 2024

Karthik played 15 matches in IPL 2024, scoring 326 runs at an average of 36.22. He struck at 187.36, pulling off the role of the finisher to perfection. He notched two half-centuries, hitting 27 fours and 22 maximums. With the glove, he took four catches and effected one stumping. Karthik played some memorable knocks during the campaign, but his best came against Sunrisers Hyderabad when he smashed 83 off 35 balls, albeit in a losing cause. In his last match, Karthik scored 11 off 13 deliveries as RCB posted 172 on board.

Karthik played 257 IPL matches, notching 4842 runs and remaining unbeaten 50 times, which is almost once every five innings. His average in the tournament has been a modest 26.32, but his strike rate has been fairly impressive at 135.36. He has scored 22 half-centuries, with the highest score of 97*. He scored 466 fours and 161 sixes, taking 145 catches and making 37 stump outs. His consistency and adaptability have earned him a revered status in the league. Karthik finished in the top 10 run-getters list in the history of the IPL.

He is the league’s second best wicketkeeper behind MS Dhoni with 174 dismissals – 145 catches, 37 stumpings. Dhoni heads with 190 dismissals – 148 catches, 42 stumpings.

Karthik formerly played for Delhi Daredevils, Kings XI Punjab, Mumbai Indians, Royal Challengers Bangalore, Gujarat Lions and Kolkata Knight Riders in the IPL. He also captained Kolkata Knight Riders between 2018 and 2020.

Dinesh Karthik’s Overall Stats

Dinesh Karthik’s Performance for Each Team

Most runs from No.4 or below in an IPL season
579 – Rishabh Pant (DC, 2018)
567 – Riyan Parag (RR, 2024)
538 – Rohit Sharma (MI, 2013)
513 – Glenn Maxwell (RCB, 2021)
498 – Dinesh Karthik (KKR, 2018)

Most ducks in the IPL
18 – Dinesh Karthik
18 – Glenn Maxwell
17 – Rohit Sharma
16 – Piyush Chawla
16 – Sunil Narine

Indian Premier League 2024 has started with a bang between the clashes of Chennai Super Kings vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru at MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai.

In the opening match of IPL 2024, RCB skipper Faf du Plessis opted to bat first after winning the toss at MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. However, their decision backfired as CSK’s Mustafizur Rahman wreaked havoc, claiming four wickets quickly.

See Also: CSK vs RCB, Match 1, IPL 2024: Mustafizur’s early breakthrough sends RCB on backfoot

RCB’s Early Struggles and Recovery

Despite a promising start, RCB stumbled, losing five wickets rapidly and placing only 173/6 in their allotted 20 overs. Mustafizur’s fiery spell disrupted their momentum, dismissing key batters like Faf du Plessis, Rajat Patidar, and Glenn Maxwell for ducks. Virat Kohli’s brief innings of 21 off 20 balls also ended abruptly. However, RCB showed resilience, with Dinesh Karthik and Anuj Rawat stabilizing the innings with a commendable partnership, adding 95 runs for the sixth wicket.

CSK’s bowling attack, led by Mustafizur Rahman and supported by Deepak Chahar, restricted RCB to a modest total. Mustafizur’s four-wicket haul was instrumental in curtailing RCB’s batting prowess.

For RCB, Faf du Plessis (35) and Virat Kohli (21) gave a good start, but then RCB lost Cameron Green (18), Glenn Maxwell (0), Rajat Patidar (0) and Cameron Green (18). However, Anuj Rawat (48) and Dinesh Kartik (38*) built a good partnership, leading RCB to score of 173/6 in 20 overs.  For CSK, Mustafizur Rahman picked 4 wickets and Deepak Chahar took one.

See Also: Watch: Rachin Ravindra’s two catches instigate a minor collapse for RCB

During the match, Virat Kohli achieved a significant milestone, surpassing 12,000 T20 runs, while Mustafizur Rahman claimed his 50th wicket in the IPL.

CSK’s Dominant Chase

In pursuit of RCB’s target of 174, CSK’s opening duo, Ruturaj Gaikwad and Rachin Ravindra, provided a blazing start. Despite Gaikwad’s early dismissal, Ravindra attacked the RCB bowlers aggressively. Ajinkya Rahane and Shivam Dube further consolidated CSK’s position, with Rahane’s dismissal being the only setback as CSK comfortably chased down the target. Ravindra ended up falling for 37 off 15 balls while Rahane was later dismissed thanks to a stunner of a catch from Glenn Maxwell on 27 off 19.

Shivam Dube then joined Daryl Mitchell as CSK’s Impact Player, Shivam Dube (34 runs from 27 balls) and Ravindra Jadeja (16 runs off 10 balls) helped CSK to chase down the total by 6 wickets in hand.

IPL 2024: Points Table

The much-anticipated clash between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) marked the commencement of the Indian Premier League 2024. The high-stakes encounter at the MA Chidambaram Stadium set the stage for an enthralling season ahead.

As CSK embarked on their quest for a record sixth IPL title, all eyes were on the team’s revamped leadership under Ruturaj Gaikwad. With the iconic MS Dhoni stepping down as captain, Gaikwad assumed the mantle, ushering in a new era for the defending champions.

See Also: CSK vs RCB, Match 1, IPL 2024: Virat Kohli achieves another milestone in IPL opener

In the first match of the IPL 2024, it was Royal Challengers Bengaluru captain Faf du Plessis who won the toss and had no hesitation in batting first against Chennai Super Kings at the MA Chidambaram Stadium. Despite Brian Lara declaring the surface as a bowl first pitch, du Plessis went with his instincts and felt putting up a target is better option that chasing.

RCB commenced their innings with aggressive batting, led by skipper Faf du Plessis, who set the tone with a blistering start. RCB got off to a cracking start, with skipper Faf du Plessis leading the charge by notching 35 off 23 deliveries with the help of eight boundaries.

Mustafizur’s Impact

Faf du Plessis gave Royal Challengers Bengaluru an electrifying start. He tore into his former teammate Deepak Chahar, but the fiery knock was cut short by left-arm pacer Mustafizur Rahman. New recruit Rachin Ravindra took a sensational catch in the deep to dismiss the RCB captain.

In the same over, Mustafizur Rahman claimed the crucial wicket of Rajat Patidar for a duck, marking MS Dhoni’s first catch of IPL 2024. The Chennai Super Kings’ bowling attack continued to wreak havoc as Deepak Chahar dismissed Glenn Maxwell for a golden duck within the powerplay, adding to RCB’s woes.

See Also: IPL 2024: Top 4 Punjab Kings players to be in focus

Royal Challengers Bengaluru, initially cruising at 41 for no loss, suffered a dramatic collapse, losing three quick wickets during the powerplay. CSK’s relentless bowling assault shifted the momentum firmly in their favour.

Wickets in Quick Succession

Mustafizur Rahman returned to the attack in the 12th over, delivering another blow to RCB’s hopes. On the second ball of the over, Mustafizur accounted for the dismissal of Virat Kohli. Ajinkya Rahane executed a brilliant catch, tossing the ball to boundary rider Rachin Ravindra before sliding over the boundary line.

In a further setback for RCB, Cameron Green fell victim to Mustafizur Rahman on the fourth ball of the same over. Green attempted a big shot but missed the delivery entirely, resulting in his stumps being shattered. The loss of two critical wickets in quick succession raised concerns about RCB’s ability to recover in the match, posing a daunting challenge for the struggling side.

Mustafizur Rahman has bowled three overs and he bagged 4 important wickets for CSK. RCB is now 124/5 after 17 Overs.

Transition from MS Dhoni’s Captaincy

The spotlight also fell on Dhoni, whose decision to relinquish the captaincy added an intriguing dimension to the tournament opener. With Dhoni’s unparalleled legacy as CSK’s former captain, his transition to a mentorship role signalled a dynamic shift for the franchise.

Mo Bobat, the head coach of Royal Challengers Bengaluru, has praised the exceptional form of batting maestro Virat Kohli, noting his current positive state. The RCB squad is geared up to face defending champions Chennai Super Kings in the inaugural match of IPL 2024 at the Chepauk Stadium on Friday, March 22.

Kohli’s outstanding performance in IPL 2023 saw him secure the fourth-highest run tally, amassing 639 runs in 14 matches, with an impressive average of 53.25. His remarkable feat includes two centuries and six half-centuries. Despite Kohli’s stellar efforts, RCB narrowly missed securing a playoff berth by just two points, ending the season in sixth place with seven wins and seven losses out of their 14 matches.

Kohli’s stellar form and championship spirit

Ahead of their clash with CSK, Bobat expressed confidence in Kohli’s form, hailing him as a cricketing champion. Kohli holds the record for the highest run tally in IPL history, accumulating 7,263 runs in 237 matches since the inaugural season in 2008, boasting an average of 37.25.

Notably, he has secured the most centuries (7) in the tournament and shares the record for the most fifties (50) with Punjab Kings captain Shikhar Dhawan.”Virat is in excellent form. He’s an absolute cricketing champion. We’re thrilled about his fresh approach, especially after spending quality time with his family. His batting prowess is truly remarkable,” remarked Bobat.

Previewing IPL 2024: The Royal Challengers Bengaluru

Discussing the addition of Alzarri Joseph, Bobat praised the West Indies fast bowler as a seasoned performer and commended RCB’s diverse overseas bowling choices. RCB made strategic moves during the IPL 2024 mini-auction held in Dubai last year, securing the signings of Joseph (Rs. 11.50 crore), Yash Dayal (Rs. 5 crore), Tom Curran (Rs. 1.5 crore), Lockie Ferguson (Rs. 2 crore), Swapnil Singh (Rs. 20 lakh), and Saurav Chauhan (Rs. 20 lakh).

“He’s a proven talent in both international cricket and the IPL. With his imposing stature and bounce akin to Reece Topley and Lockie Ferguson, Joseph strengthens our overseas bowling arsenal. The variety we possess in our bowling options is quite promising. Faf has a good understanding of Alzarri’s capabilities, so we’re optimistic about what he brings to the table,” remarked Bobat.

SEE ALSO:IPL 2024: Rohit Sharma reacts to MS Dhoni’s CSK captaincy departure Ahead of IPL 2024 opener vs RCB

IPL 2024 RCB Squad

Faf du Plessis (c), Glenn Maxwell, Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar, Anuj Rawat, Dinesh Karthik, Suyash Prabhudessai, Will Jacks, Mahipal Lomror, Karn Sharma, Manoj Bhandage, Mayank Dagar, Vijaykumar Vyshak, Akash Deep, Mohammed Siraj, Reece Topley, Himanshu Sharma, Rajan Kumar, Cameron Green, Alzarri Joseph, Yash Dayal, Tom Curran, Lockie Ferguson, Swapnil Singh, Saurav Chauhan: RCB’s IPL 2024 Squad

Smriti Mandhana’s remarkable triumph in the Women’s Premier League (WPL) has etched her name in history as she lifted the trophy for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) after beating Delhi Capitals Women by 8 wickets in the final. This victory holds special significance for RCB, which has long awaited its maiden title in the Indian Premier League (IPL) since 2008. After RCB’s victory in WPL, critics and trolls took to social media platforms to target Virat Kohli.

RCB’s Long Wait Continues In IPL

Since the inception of the IPL in 2008, RCB has endured a prolonged wait for their first championship title. Despite numerous attempts and close encounters, victory has remained elusive for the franchise, adding to the anticipation and enthusiasm surrounding their quest for glory.

See Also: IPL 2024: SWOT Analysis of Punjab Kings

WPL 2024 Triumph: Breaking the Jinx

In the second season of the Women’s Premier League (WPL), under the leadership of Smriti Mandhana, RCB finally achieved the breakthrough they had been striving for. Despite facing challenges along the way, including a balanced performance with four wins and four losses in the league stage, RCB displayed resilience and determination to clinch the third spot and secure a place in the final.

Following Royal Challengers Bangalore’s victory in WPL, critics and trolls took to social media platforms to target Virat Kohli and other members of the RCB franchise for their inability to secure more than one IPL title since the tournament’s inception in 2008.Here’s some of the social media posts are:

RCB’s Performance in WPL 2024

Throughout the WPL 2024 season, RCB exhibited commendable teamwork and skill, showcasing their ability to overcome adversity and perform under pressure. The team’s victory in the Eliminator against defending champions Mumbai Indians highlighted their competitive spirit and marked a significant improvement from their previous season’s struggles.

IPL 2008: RCB vs DC

In 2008, the esteemed Anil Kumble led Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) to the IPL final during the tournament held in South Africa. However, their hopes of clinching the title were dashed by Adam Gilchrist’s Deccan Chargers, who emerged victorious, denying RCB the opportunity to lift the trophy.

The stage is set for an electrifying showdown as the two finalists of the Women’s Premier League 2024, Delhi Capitals Women and Royal Challengers Bangalore Women, gear up to face each other at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi on Sunday night. Cricket enthusiasts are in for a treat as the clash promises to unveil the newest champions of the league. Delhi Capitals Women have won the toss and have opted to bat

Delhi Capitals Women: The Standout Team

In a display of dominance, Delhi Capitals Women emerged as the standout team on the league stage. They asserted their dominance with six wins out of eight matches, only facing defeats at the hands of Mumbai Indians and UP Warriorz. Their consistent performance propelled them to the top of the points table, securing their spot in the final for the second consecutive time.

See Also: Dhruv Jurel prefers Test cricket over any other format ahead of IPL 2024

Royal Challengers Bangalore Women: Overcoming Challenges

On the other hand, Royal Challengers Bangalore Women had to navigate through a more arduous path. Despite a balanced performance with four wins and four losses, they clinched the third spot in the league stage. However, they showcased resilience in the Eliminator, defeating defending champions Mumbai Indians to book their maiden final berth. This marked a significant improvement from their previous season’s performance, where they struggled to secure victories.

As anticipation reaches fever pitch, cricket fans are busy speculating on the likely outcome of the final. While Delhi Capitals Women hold the edge with their impressive performance in the league stage, Royal Challengers Bangalore Women cannot be discounted, especially after their resolute victory in the Eliminator. Pitch conditions, weather, and player form will influence the final result.

Women’s Premier League: Who said what at the toss?

Meg Lanning – We will bat tonight, I think this is our best chance to win the game. The pitch is in good shape so you have to bat well. It doesn’t matter what happened before. We are facing a great team and we have to play well. We will be on the same team.

Smriti Mandhana – We would have batted first as well, but it didn’t worked. I think we have to play well, stick to the plan and play good cricket. We’ve had a lot of ups and downs this season, but tonight we have to do our best. This is the fourth match played on a single wicket and the last wicket was slow. One change, We’ve one change – Meghana comes in for Disha Kasat

Playing XIs

Delhi Capitals Women (Playing XI): Meg Lanning(c), Shafali Verma, Alice Capsey, Jemimah Rodrigues, Marizanne Kapp, Jess Jonassen, Radha Yadav, Arundhati Reddy, Taniya Bhatia(w), Shikha Pandey, Minnu Mani

Royal Challengers Bangalore Women (Playing XI): Smriti Mandhana(c), Sophie Devine, Sabbhineni Meghana, Ellyse Perry, Richa Ghosh(w), Sophie Molineux, Georgia Wareham, Shreyanka Patil, Asha Sobhana, Shraddha Pokharkar, Renuka Thakur Singh

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) is the most loved franchise and enriched star-studded side in IPL and enters the IPL 2024 season with aspirations to finally clinch its maiden title. With a rich history but a need pure luck, the Bengaluru-based franchise is determined to end its trophy drought.

RCB’s Disappointing 2023 Season

In the 2023 IPL edition, RCB fell short of expectations, failing to progress beyond the round-robin stage. Led by Faf du Plessis, they finished in the seventh spot on the IPL points table, a performance that left fans disheartened.

See Also: IPL 2024: Delhi Capitals probable playing XI and impact player strategies

Despite past disappointments, RCB remains optimistic about its prospects in IPL 2024. With a blend of experienced campaigners and promising youngsters, they aim to turn their fortunes around and mount a serious title challenge.

Strengths of RCB’s Squad

RCB boasts a formidable lineup for IPL 2024, anchored by veterans like Virat Kohli and Dinesh Karthik. Including new talent, such as Cameron Green, adds depth and versatility to the squad. With a perfect blend of youth and experience, RCB presents a formidable challenge to their opponents.

Andy Flower’s Impact as Head Coach

Andy Flower, the newly appointed head coach of RCB, brings a wealth of experience and tactical insight to the team. His leadership and strategic insights are expected to rejuvenate the squad and instill a winning mentality. After dropping these names from the squad, Bangalore have added six players and new head coach with new manager to the squad in the 2024 IPL auction. Let’s have a look at RCB’s best XI.

RCB’s best playing XI

1. Virat Kohli:

2. Faf du Plessis (C)

3. Cameron Green

4. Rajat Patidar

5. Glenn Maxwell

6. Dinesh Karthik (WK)

7. Mahipal Lomror/ Anuj Rawat

8. Lockie Ferguson

9. Akash Deep

10. Karn Sharma

11. Mohammed Siraj

Impact Player:- Vijaykumar Vyshak

RCB’s bought in IPL 2024 auction: Alzarri Joseph (Rs. 11.50 crore), Yash Dayal (Rs. 5 crores), Tom Curran (Rs. 1.5 crore), Lockie Ferguson (Rs. 2 crore), Swapnil Singh (Rs. 20 lakh), Saurav Chauhan (Rs. 20 lakh).

RCB IPL 2024 SQUAD COMPOSITION

Batters: Faf du Plessis (SA), Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar, Suyash Prabhudessai, Saurav Chauhan. 

Wicketkeepers: Anuj Rawat, Dinesh Karthik.

All-rounders: Mahipal Lomror, Glenn Maxwell (AUS), Manoj Bhandage, Tom Curran (ENG), Swapnil Singh, Will Jacks (ENG), Cameron Green (AUS). 

Bowlers: Akash Deep, Mohammed Siraj, Karn Sharma, Rajan Kumar, Reece Topley (ENG), Himanshu Sharma, Alzarri Joseph (WI), Lockie Ferguson (NZ), Yash Dayal, Vijaykumar Vyshak, Mayank Dagar.