IPL 2022 | Karthik still hopeful for a place in Indian squad

Dinesh Karthik showed a spectacular performance against the Delhi Capitals last night, emerging as a premier finisher in the 15th edition of the IPL. Karthik scored an unmatched 66 off 34 balls that set the pace for the RCB win against Delhi Capitals.

On Saturday, the wicketkeeper-batsman stated that he had been trying everything to earn a place in the national team. However, Karthik has been an inconsistent face in the Indian squad and has had limited opportunities to showcase his talent. He debuted in 2004 and was etched in memory by a picturesque stumping of Michael Vaughan at Lord's. 

His opportunities were scarce during his peak since M.S Dhoni was a regular wicketkeeper at the time, and Karthik had been criticised for his wicket-keeping skills in the past; Karthik ultimately disappeared from the national squad after the arrival of Dhoni.

Karthik, who was purchased for 5.5 crores by the Royal Challengers Bangalore, stated that he had bigger plans for himself.

"I must admit that I have a bigger goal. I have been working really hard. My aim is 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 at the presentation ceremony where he was awarded the 'player of the match trophy.

RCK skipper Faf Du Plessis had nothing but praise to shower at the wicketkeeper-batsman for his performance against the Delhi Capitals

"To get 190, you need special innings, and credit goes to the two boys, Shahbaz and DK." 

"The way DK is playing at the moment, I may sound like a broken record, but he is playing the best he has ever. He is so clear, calm and composed," du Plessis concluded.

Delhi Capitals skipper Rishab Pant also hailed Dinesh Karthik.

"The over from Mustafizur was a game-changer for us. I think we could've bowled according to our plans, but we were slightly under the pump from DK in the latter half. I've said this before, too; we've got to learn from our mistakes," said Rishab Pant at the post-match presentation.

Karthik is undoubtedly at the best of his form and has opened up new opportunities to make his way into the Indian squad.