Harbhajan Singh stands by Dinesh Karthik amidst criticism


image-la44tommDinesh Karthik keeping for India [Source: AP]

Swashbuckling India keeper-batter Dinesh Karthik earned a surprise recall to the national T20 team after a string of impressive performances in the IPL 2022. Considering his extraordinary finishing skills, the Indian think tank assigned him the finisher's role for the T20 World Cup in Australia. 

However, contrary to popular expectations, the veteran batter is yet to come good in the showpiece event, managing only 14 runs across four outings at a horrendous average of 4.67. Karthik has received massive backlash from all corners, with many people calling for his axing from the team. 

However, legendary former spinner Harbhajan Singh has come in support of the experienced campaigner amidst criticism. Speaking to 'Sports Tak', the crafty tweaker opined that Karthik deserves to be backed as he is the lone designated finisher of the team. 

Thus, the 42-year-old further demanded the team management to give Karthik a number of opportunities to prove his worth like they have done with the top-order batters despite their failure. 


Here's what Harbhajan stated

"When Karthik was injured, I said that we should bring back Pant. But if he is fit, Karthik should play because you selected him as a finisher. You cannot play Pant in that role,

"He has worked hard, he has scored heavily and earned his place on merit. You can’t say he has flopped after three chances. Everyone should get equal opportunities. If top-order players are getting backed by the team management, lower-order batters should also be backed."

Meanwhile, India will play their final Super 12 game against Zimbabwe in Melbourne on Sunday. So, it remains to be seen whether the Men in Blue trust Karthik or replace him with Rishabh Pant in this must-win encounter. 


Also Read: Glenn Maxwell rues inconsistency after Australia's World Cup exit