Image Credit- BCCI
Dinesh Karthik is expected to make his SA20 debut as the first Indian player. Prior to the start of the new season on January 9, Karthik will sign with the Paarl Royals as an international player.
Karthik announced his retirement from “representative cricket” on June 1st, the day he turned 39. This will be his first competition since. Karthik, who has played 180 international matches for India, last appeared for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the Indian Premier League in 2024. The team has since recruited him as a mentor and batting coach.
Because of his extensive knowledge of the shortest format, Karthik is regarded by his colleagues as one of the smartest pundits on the T20 circuit. Karthik, who is presently covering the Hundred for Sky Sports, has played for six clubs in the Indian Premier League (IPL), including the dominant Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). He has also appeared in 401 T20s. Having missed just two games in 17 seasons, Karthik was also one of the IPL’s fittest players.
“I have so many fond memories of playing in and visiting South Africa,” Karthik said. “When this opportunity came about, I couldn’t say no because of how special it would be to come back to playing competitive cricket and win this incredible competition with the Royals.
“Even though I didn’t have the chance to represent the Royals in the IPL, to me it was always a franchise setup and environment that was very attractive as a player. I am delighted to be joining the Paarl Royals team which oozes a lot of experience, quality and potential. I am certainly looking forward to joining the group and contributing to what should be an exciting season.”