Just a night left for the T20 World Cup 2024. But just before that day, Indian fans received a heartbreak. Star Indian wicketkeeper batter Dinesh Karthik has announced official retirement from all forms of cricket. It was known that he had played the final edition of IPL in his career. Now, he made an official announcement on his retirement. On his social media, he shared an emotional note and bid goodbye to cricket.
DK’s exciting career:
Dinesh Karthik made his debut for India at 19 in an ODI against England at Lord’s in September 2004 and has played for six different IPL teams. While his career statistics of 26 Tests, 94 ODIs, and 60 T20s over two decades may not be astonishing, the ever-active player stayed significant till the end. Despite life’s challenges, the wicketkeeper-batsman reshaped his role as a finisher during the Nidahas Trophy final in 2018, demonstrating his enduring impact in cricket.
He ended on high. In the 2024 IPL season, Dinesh Karthik scored 326 runs in 15 matches, with a highest score of 83. His average was 36.22, and he maintained a strike rate of 187.36. Although he didn’t score a century, he managed to secure two half-centuries, showcasing his consistent performance throughout the season. In many crucial situations, he has become a powerhouse for the team.
He has showcased his finisher skills this season. Coming to bat in lower order, he has played some match-winning knocks that pushed the team closer to winning. He played a crucial role in pushing RCB into the playoffs. Watching Dinesh Karthik’s excellence a buzz was created over his place in the T20 World Cup squad.
Dinesh Karthik’s Official Announcement:
Dinesh Karthik played the last match of his career in the last eliminator of IPL 2024 against Rajasthan Royal at the eliminator clash. In that match, he scored 11 runs in 13 balls. Although Royal Challengers Bengaluru lost the match his teammates gave an emotional farewell.
On his social media handle, he wrote, “I’ve been overwhelmed by the affection, support and love I have received in the last few days. My deepest gratitude and sincere thanks to all the fans who have made this feeling possible. Having given it plenty of thought for sometime now, I have decided to move on from playing representative cricket. I officially announce my retirement and put my playing days behind me as I square up for the new challenges that lie ahead.”
Later he added, “ 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.”
While thanking his parents and fans, the wicketkeeper batter wrote, “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, 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.”
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