Dinesh Karthik, a key player for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), ended his Indian Premier League (IPL) career with a loss in the Eliminator match against Rajasthan Royals (RR) on Wednesday. Karthik, who had suggested this IPL season would be his last, received a guard of honour from his teammates after the match in Ahmedabad. While Karthik himself didn’t comment on his retirement, the league’s broadcaster confirmed the news through a social media post following the game. Karthik, who debuted in the T20 league 16 years ago, is celebrated as one of the best finishers in this format of cricket.
Jio Cinema, the IPL’s digital broadcaster, paid tribute to the RCB wicketkeeper-batsman on social media. Karthik, who has one IPL title to his name, acknowledged the fans by removing his gloves as RCB players expressed their gratitude to the spectators.
A heartfelt moment for RCB fans occurred when Virat Kohli embraced Karthik, who appeared emotional. As he walked back to the dressing room, Karthik received a guard of honour from his RCB teammates.
Karthik’s IPL career concludes with 4,842 runs in 257 matches, including 22 fifties. Over his distinguished 17-year IPL career, Karthik played for six franchises in the league.
Karthik made his IPL debut in the inaugural 2008 season with Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals). He then moved to Punjab in 2011, and subsequently played for Mumbai Indians, Gujarat Lions, Kolkata Knight Riders, and RCB.
In the current season, Karthik scored 326 runs in 15 matches, boasting an average of 36.22 and an impressive strike rate of 187.36.
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