Royal Challengers Bangalore's (RCB) campaign in the IPL 2024 came to a crashing halt after a four-wicket defeat against Rajasthan Royals (RR) in the Eliminator on May 22. This loss not only extinguished RCB's hopes of a maiden IPL title but also likely marked the end of Dinesh Karthik's illustrious IPL career. Despite a shaky start to the season with seven losses in eight matches, RCB staged a stunning comeback, winning six consecutive games to secure a playoff berth. However, their journey ended in the Eliminator. Following the defeat, an emotional Dinesh Karthik was seen acknowledging the fans, and his teammates even accorded him a guard of honor. This emotional send-off has fueled speculation that Karthik, the veteran wicketkeeper-batsman, might be drawing the curtains on his IPL playing career. Virat Kohli, his teammate, has a message for Karthik in light of this possible retirement.
Dinesh Karthik's expertise when it comes to cricket is priceless
A recent RCB social media video featured Dinesh Karthik reflecting on his career. But the real twist came when former Indian skipper Virat Kohli also chimed in. Kohli's message hinted at a potential farewell for Karthik, but with a silver lining. He expressed his hope that Karthik would stay involved with RCB franchise, even if his playing days are over. This suggests Kohli sees value in Karthik's experience and might be open to a coaching or mentoring role for him within the team.
"Hopefully, he remains connected to RCB in one way or the other in the future because his expertise when it comes to cricket is priceless," said Kohli.
Mutual Admiration: Kohli and Karthik's touching exchange
The recent RCB video showcasing Dinesh Karthik's career retrospective took an emotional turn when Virat Kohli also shared his thoughts. Kohli's message hinted at a possible farewell for Karthik, but with an interesting twist. He expressed his desire for Karthik to remain involved with the franchise beyond playing. Karthik's response was equally heartwarming. He acknowledged Kohli's legendary status as one of the greatest cricketers, expressing his deep admiration. More importantly, he described Kohli's respect and value as a "massive, massive success" in his own career.
"Virat Kohli is probably one of the greatest sportsmen to have ever played this sport and arguably the most famous personality going around in the world of cricket. I've always been a well-wisher of his, been an admirer of his," said Karthik.
"Always looked at him from afar and learned a lot of things in terms of how much he pushes himself off the field. I am a big fan of his. To know that he respects me and values me as a person, I'll take that as a massive, massive success in my cricketing journey," he added.
"And I will do anything I can for RCB whenever possible. The fact that they have given me a new lease of life when I played for them at the fag end of my career, is one that I will never forget," Karthik concluded.
Dinesh Karthik, a true IPL veteran, has seemingly drawn the curtains on his playing career in the tournament. He was a mainstay since the inaugural season in 2008, amassing a remarkable 4842 runs across 257 matches. Throughout his journey, he crafted 22 scintillating half-centuries, showcasing his consistent ability to score big. This season itself, Karthik remained a valuable contributor, adding 326 runs with two well-composed fifties to his name.
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