Team India head coach Rahul Dravid has revealed Dinesh Karthik has been picked to play the finisher’s role in the upcoming T20I series against South Africa. Karthik was really impressive while playing the same role for Royal Challengers Bangalore in the recently concluded Tata Indian Premier League 2022.
The veteran right-hander scored 330 runs in 16 matches at an impressive average of 55 and a blistering strike rate of 183.33. Karthik has all the experience under his belt and he will look to grab his opportunity in the series against the Proteas.
In fact, Karthik had last played for the national team back in 2019 against Australia in the T20I format but he was able to make it into the team after his impressive performances in the IPL despite turning 37 recently.
Karthik has been consistent in the last few years in the IPL and he will certainly look to grab his chances for the national team. The veteran was knocking down at the doors of the selection with his consistent performances and he was finally rewarded by the selectors.
“Dinesh… it’s pretty obvious… Very clear that he has made a comeback based on the skills that he has shown in a particular phase of the game. At that backend, Dinesh has really been able to show great consistency for the last 2-3 years. He has been able to make a difference in whichever team he has played, that’s why he has been picked,” Dravid said in the pre-match press conference on Tuesday.
Karthik has the skills to hit the ground running and he has definitely improved his skills as a finisher.
“He’s been picked to bat in that kind of position and see if he can replicate the same performances for India as well,” Dravid added.
Dinesh Karthik will look to grab his opportunity and he could be a great asset for India in the T20 World Cup if he continues his good form. The first T20I between India and South Africa will be played at Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi on June 9.
