Wicket-keeper batsman Dinesh Karthik is undoubtedly one of the best and most consistent batters in the Indian Premier League (IPL). The right-handed batter has represented quite a few teams in the cash-rich league in his journey from being a specialist middle-order batter to a finisher – evidence of which was on display in the ongoing fifteenth season.
Ahead of IPL 2022, Karthik was bought by Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) for INR 5.50 crore in the mega auction. The move truly worked for the Challengers as Karthik unleashed his powers, donned a spectacular finisher avatar, and played a key role in RCB’s qualification for IPL 2022 playoffs.
However, RCB’s hopes of winning their maiden IPL title came to an end on Friday, following their seven wicket loss to Rajasthan Royals (RR) in Qualifier 2 in Ahmedabad. After the upsetting loss, Karthik opened up about what it was to represent RCB in the IPL, claiming their fanbase was the best he has ever been part of in the lucrative league.
Notably, in his glorious IPL career, Karthik has played for Delhi Daredevils, Kings XI Punjab, Mumbai Indians, RCB (before the 2022 season), Gujarat Lions and Kolkata Knight Riders.
“I have been part of many teams, but this is the best fanbase I have ever been part of because the cheers that I have gotten in the ground, I have never gotten anywhere else. I am really thankful, without fans like you, people like me at this age would not be pushing myself to try and achieve what I am trying to achieve. Thank you so much, you guys mean a lot in my life because it is one thing playing the IPL, but when you are able to put a smile on people’s faces, that is the real reason why you play sport,” Karthik said in a video shared by RCB’s official YouTube handle.
“I am really happy, I am really grateful that I have found this franchise and this fanbase who have literally accepted me with open arms. I am blessed in many ways to achieve what we did as a team, but most importantly, the fans who have come on my social media feed, Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, all these places and the way they talk about me, I do read a little bit here and there. The engagement they give, so much positivity, that is where I feel I have let you all down a little bit his year, but we will try really hard next season,” added Karthik.
