Royal Challengers Bengaluru wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik has hinted at IPL retirement after this season following the match against Chennai Super Kings on Friday, March 22 at the Chepauk. Karthik said that it could very well be his last match at the iconic ground after CSK defeated RCB in the season opener. The veteran wicket-keeper batter, who has been a constant fixture in the IPL since its inception, and has played for six teams in the league and also captain Kolkata Knight Riders.
Before the start of the new season, reports had emerged that this could be the final season for Karthik as a player in the IPL as he would shift his focus to his commentary work. Karthik would now confirm that retirement could be on the cards during the press conference after the match.
The veteran was asked if this could be his last match at Chepauk and he responded by saying he hopes to comeback for the Playoffs, if it is being held in Chennai. If that's not the case, then Karthik said that this could have been his final match.
"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.
Karthik was on commentary duty during the India vs England and would leave the series mid-way to start his prepartions for the IPL. The veteran played a crucial knock in the season opener for RCB as he bailed them out alongside Anuj Rawat. The duo powered their side to 173 for six in 20 overs. Karthik scored 38 off 26 balls and remained unbeaten.
However, CSK would end up winning the match by six wickets.
Karthik would say it has been extremely challenging for him to juggle his commentary work and getting ready for the IPL. However, the veteran said he was hapoy with how game 1 panned out for him.
"Extremely challenging. Doing a bit of commentary and practising cricket in between Test matches and in between the time that you get has been a lot of hardwork. I am happy that game 1 has gone in a positive way for me personally and it feels good to score some runs," said Karthik.
RCB next face Punjab Kings on March 25 in their second match of the IPL 2024 season.
