Wicketkeeper-batsman Dinesh Karthik feels his selection in the Indian team this time is his “most special comeback” in his tumultuous career spanning 18 years. Karthik has been selected in the Indian team for the T20 series against South Africa starting on June 9. He has played 26 Tests, 94 ODIs and 32 T20 matches for India.
The 36-year-old said on the website of Royal Challengers Bangalore, “This is the most special comeback because many people tied my sack bed. Coming back for me means that I will play the same way, practice the same way and work as hard.” Karthik’s stellar performance in the IPL forced the selectors to pick him.
Karthik last played for India in the 2019 World Cup. He praised the team management of RCB who always supported him in his role as a finisher. Karthik said, “He clearly told my role and supported me. I will be indebted to RCB who picked me and trusted me to give me this responsibility. I tried my best performance. I am feeling great .”
Karthik is aiming to make it to the squad for the T20 World Cup to be held in Australia later this year. “The contenders for selection will be many young players whose talent is in front of everyone. It’s a wonderful feeling to be among them amongst the contenders for a place in the World Cup squad.” ”
In the current IPL season, Karthik has so far scored 287 runs in 14 matches at an average of 57.40 and a strike rate of 191.33. He has been instrumental in making RCB’s place in the playoffs. Dinesh Karthik’s 29 off eight balls in the 2018 Nidhas Trophy final against Bangladesh helped India register a win and it is one of the wicketkeeper-batsman’s best innings.