Dinesh Karthik’s Surprise Decision: To Represent T20 Franchise Overseas

Former wicketkeeper batsman Dinesh Karthik was recently recruited by Paarl Royals for the third season of the SA20, becoming the initial Indian cricketer to engage in the South African league, commencing on January 9. Karthik, 39, retired from all forms of cricket in June this year and has since been appointed as a mentor-cum-batting coach by IPL side Royal Challengers Bengaluru. “I have numerous cherished memories of competing in and visiting South Africa, and when this chance arose, I could not decline due to how extraordinary it would be to return to competitive cricket and triumph in this remarkable tournament with the Royals,” expressed Karthik, who has participated in 180 matches for India across all three formats.

His most recent competitive T20 appearance was for RCB in the IPL 2024, where he amassed 326 runs in 14 matches at a strike-rate of 187.36.

Karthik’s final game in India attire was against Bangladesh during the T20 World Cup in Australia in 2022.

“I am thrilled to be part of the Paarl Royals squad which exudes a lot of experience, quality, and potential. I am definitely eager to join the team and contribute to what should be a thrilling season,” Karthik, who was appointed as the league representative a day earlier, stated.

Royals’ Director of Cricket, Kumar Sangakkara, aspired to capitalize on Karthik’s extensive T20 expertise.

“Dinesh has served as one of the contemporary greats for India in white-ball cricket, and his abundance of experience will aid in the formation of our team.

“He has consistently proven to be a valuable asset for the teams he has represented in various leagues due to his approach to the game and the influence he can have,” mentioned Sangakkara.

With the Royals, Karthik will be alongside other international talents such as captain David Miller, Joe Root, Lungi Ngidi, Andile Phehlukwayo, and Kwena Maphaka.