‘If I were a Selector, I would pick him’ - Gavaskar on inclusion of DK in T20 WC

Dinesh Karthik has set the ongoing Indian Premier League 2022 on fire by giving a string of sensational batting performances for the Royal Challengers Bangalore. He has been a significant finisher for RCB, smashing 274 runs at an average of 68.50 and a startling strike rate of 200. 

The wicketkeeper’s performance as a finisher for the Faf du Plessis-led franchise has led to several calls for him to be included in the Indian squad for the T20 World Cup this year. 

The former Indian skipper and batting legend Sunil Gavaskar is the new addition to this tally as he entirely supported the calls of fans and cricket pundits for the inclusion of Karthik in the Indian T20I squad. 

Speaking to Sports Tak, Gavaskar revealed that the 36-year-old was expecting to play for India in T20 World Cup 2021 and is determined to play in the 2022 edition of the marquee event in Australia. 

“We did commentary together during the World Test Championship final in England last year, and before that, we spent a lot of time together when we were in quarantine. I know from then how determined he has been about playing in the T20 World Cups of 2021 and 2022.

“He wasn’t selected for last year’s World Cup, but the way he has performed in IPL 2022, if I were a selector, then I would pick him for the upcoming T20 World Cup,” Gavaskar said.

The veteran further added that Karthik should be selected just based on his form, and age should not be the obstacle while picking him in the Indian squad.

“Form is important. They say form is temporary and class is permanent, and if a classy player is in form, then you must pick him. The way he is batting currently, he should be considered and included as a pure batter, and wicket-keeping should be an added option,” he added.

The keeper-batter, who last played for India at the 2019 World Cup, himself admitted that he has ambitions to represent India in the 2022 T20 World Cup. 

“I must admit that I have a bigger goal. I have been working hard. I aim to do something special for the country. This is part of my journey. I have been trying everything to be a part of the Indian team,” Karthik said in a post-match conference after the clash against Delhi Capitals on April 17.