Dinesh Karthik, the veteran Indian batter, has dropped hints about his IPL retirement after the conclusion of the 17th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL 2024). The tournament kicked off on March 22nd as the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) opened their account against the title-defenders Chennai Super Kings (CSK).
Karthik played a pivotal role in totalling 173 on the board as the RCB batted first. He stayed not out on 38 coming off 26, however, the team ended on the losing cause. Given the decent target, the CSK chased it down in 18.4 overs and won by six wickets.
Karthik, at the conclusion of the match, was questioned if it was his last match at MA Chidambaram Stadium. The experienced player showed optimism in RCB’s journey to the playoffs in the ongoing season, hoping that he once again will be here before deciding on his career.
“That’s a great question. I genuinely wish it’s not because a couple of matches of the Playoffs could be here. If I come back for that, that could be the last. Otherwise, I think it could be,” said Karthik in the post-match press conference.
His statement shows that yesterday’s match against CSK will be Karthik’s last at this stadium in case the RCB do not qualify for the playoffs. However, if the Faf du Plessis-led side manages to qualify, he will be once again in action ‘for the last time’ in the IPL. This statement somehow confirms that IPL 2024 is going to be his last season.
Earlier this month, a reliable BCCI source was quoted as saying:
“This 2024 edition will be his (Dinesh Karthik’s) last IPL. He will decide his international retirement after the IPL,”
Karthik is also reported to announce international retirement soon after IPL 2024 and will be seen in the commentary box.
Also, see:
IPL 2024 complete squads for all teams with injured and withdrawn players
