The 39-year-old is set to become the first Indian player to feature in the tournament(Dinesh Karthik )
Dinesh Karthik is set to become the first Indian player to compete in the SA20, a T20 league in South Africa. According to ESPNcricinfo, Karthik will join Paarl Royals as an overseas player for the new season, which begins on January 9.
This will be Karthik’s first tournament since he announced his retirement from “representative cricket” in June on his 39th birthday. He has played 180 international matches for India. Before his retirement, Karthik last played in the IPL 2024 for the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). After retiring from playing, RCB has now brought him on board as a mentor and batting coach.
Dinesh Karthik Joins Paarl Royals for SA20, Excited to Return to South Africa and Add Value to the Team
Dinesh Karthik is highly respected in the T20 cricket world for his deep knowledge and extensive experience. He’s currently working as a commentator for The Hundred on Sky Sports. Over his career, Karthik has played in 401 T20 matches and has been part of six different IPL teams, including leading the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). He’s known for his fitness, having missed only two matches in 17 IPL seasons.
Karthik shared his excitement about joining Paarl Royals for the SA20, saying he has many great memories of playing and visiting South Africa. He couldn’t pass up the chance to return to competitive cricket and hopes to help the Royals win the tournament.
Even though he never played for the Royals in the IPL, he always found their setup appealing. Karthik is thrilled to be part of a team with a lot of experience, quality, and potential and looks forward to a thrilling season.
The BCCI only allows retired Indian players to take part in T20 leagues outside India. Last year, Ambati Rayudu played for St Kitts & Nevis Patriots in the CPL, while Robin Uthappa and Yusuf Pathan joined Dubai Capitals in the ILT20. Two years ago, Suresh Raina was part of Deccan Gladiators in the Abu Dhabi T10.
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Paarl Royals recently announced their team for the upcoming season, retaining key players like captain David Miller, Lungi Ngidi, and Andile Phehlukwayo. Last season, the Royals made it to the Qualifiers but ended up losing five games in a row, including a heavy defeat against Joburg Super Kings in the Eliminator.
Kumar Sangakkara, the Royals’ director of cricket, praised Karthik’s experience and impact, saying, “Dinesh has been one of the greats in white-ball cricket for India, and his experience will be valuable for our team in Season 3. He’s always been a strong player and an asset to his teams, so we’re excited to have him join us at Paarl.”
Paarl Royals squad
1st July – Dinesh Karthik announced as RCB batting coach.
— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) August 6, 2024
5th August – Dinesh Karthik announced as SA20 brand ambassador.
6th August – Dinesh Karthik to play for Paarl Royals in SA20.
– DK, the coach, the ambassador, the player…!!! 😄👌 pic.twitter.com/dpjOSCuBRD
David Miller, Lungi Ngidi, Bjorn Fortuin, Andile Phehlukwayo, Dinesh Karthik, Mitchell van Buuren, Codi Yusuf, Keith Dudgeon, Nqaba Peter, Kwena Maphaka, Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Dayyaan Galiem (traded in)
FAQs :
Why is Dinesh Karthik making a comeback to cricket?
Karthik is coming out of retirement to play in the SA20. Despite announcing his retirement from all formats two months ago, he decided to join the Paarl Royals for the upcoming season.
What team has Dinesh Karthik signed with?
Dinesh Karthik has signed with Paarl Royals for the SA20, becoming the first Indian cricketer to participate in this South African T20 league.
When does the SA20 season start?
The new season of the SA20 is set to begin on January 9.
What is the significance of Karthik’s participation in the SA20?
Karthik’s participation is notable as he is the first Indian cricketer to play in the SA20. His move highlights the rare opportunity for retired Indian players to compete in overseas T20 leagues.
What other roles does Karthik have in cricket?
Apart from playing in the SA20, Karthik is also serving as a Brand Ambassador for the SA20’s third edition and is involved in broadcasting and commentary for The Hundred in England.
Why are only retired Indian players allowed in overseas leagues?
The BCCI permits only retired Indian players to participate in overseas T20 leagues. This policy aims to manage player workloads and domestic commitments.
What was Karthik’s last international appearance?
Karthik’s last international game for India was against Bangladesh during the 2022 T20 World Cup.
What was Karthik’s last IPL team?
Karthik played his final IPL season with the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), who have since signed him as a batting coach and mentor.
What are Karthik’s contributions to cricket?
Karthik has played 257 IPL matches, 26 Test matches, 94 One Day Internationals (ODIs), and 60 T20 Internationals (T20Is) for India. He is known for his extensive experience and impact in white-ball cricket.
What did Kumar Sangakkara say about Karthik’s signing?
Kumar Sangakkara, the Royals’ director of cricket, praised Karthik as a modern-day great with valuable experience. He expressed excitement about Karthik joining the team and contributing to the upcoming season.
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