Dinesh Karthik, the veteran Indian wicketkeeper-batsman, has officially announced his retirement from all forms of cricket on his 39th birthday.
Karthik, who had previously hinted at his retirement at the end of the season, made the official announcement via his social media channel on Saturday, June 1st.
The news was met with an outpouring of tributes from his former teammates, including Venkatesh Iyer and Varun Chakravarthy, who shared touching words about the player.
Karthik, a former Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) captain, shares a close bond with the city of Kolkata, the players, and several members of the management as well.
Karthik had ventured into the world of commentary back in 2021, but regained his place in the Indian team after a terrific IPL 2022 with the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB).
He played the World Cup as a specialist finisher in 2022, but was dropped from the team after the semi-final exit. Karthik once again put up some breathtaking performances in the 2024 IPL, but was not able to make the cut to the Indian team, despite making his interests clear to the management.
KKR batting all-rounder Venkatesh Iyer and mystery spinner Varun Chakravarthy had some lovely words to say about their former captain.
The mere mention of DK puts a smile, not just mine but everyone's faces. He is such an amazing character. He's been a servant of the game for a long time now and the way he has dictated himself on the field is nothing short of inspiring for all of us. He has been a guiding light to me ever since my first year in IPL. Always look up to him for not just cricketing but life advices as well. Very smart person, Very humble, Venkatesh Iyer said in a video released by KKR.
DK bhai has been pushing and has been supporting me If you were not only in the IPL League, even in the domestic side. I got inspired by DK bhai and I used to have a poster in my bedroom. I am loving his commentary and loving how he dresses up. He's amazing, keep rocking DK bhai, Varin Chakravarthy said in the KKR video.
Dinesh Karthik retires
DINESH KARTHIK BIDS GOOBYE
DK officially announced his retirement with a touching post on Twitter. Karthik said that he had given the decision a long though and revealed that he was retiring from all forms of cricket.
I've been overwhelmed by the affection, support and love I have received in the last few days. My deepest gratitude and sincere thanks to all the fans who have made this feeling possible. Having given it plenty of thought for some time now, I have decided to move on from playing representative cricket. I officially announce my retirement and put my playing days behind me as I square up for the new challenges that lie ahead. My parents have been pillars of strength and support over all these years, and I wouldn't be what I am without their blessings. I also owe plenty to Dipika, herself a professional sportsperson who often put her career on hold to walk my journey with me, Karthik said.
Of course, to all the fans and followers of our great game, a massive thank you! Cricket and cricketers, wouldn't be the same without your support and good wishes, he further added on his note.
Karthik is expected to resume his commentary duties in the ICC T20 World Cup 2024.
Published By: Kingshuk Kusari
Published On: Jun 1, 2024
