Picture Credit: BCCI
The wicket-keeper batter of Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) Dinesh Karthik has been a revelation in terms of his performance in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL). In six innings, he has garnered a total of 197 runs at an average of 197, with a strike rate of 209.57.
In the last appearance against Delhi Capitals (DC), Karthik slammed 66 of 34 balls, comprising five fours and five sixes. In a single over off Mustafizur Rahman, he hit 28 runs and shifted the momentum towards the RCB side, which ultimately helped the team to prevail over their opposition and climb to the top four positions in the points table.
Certainly, he has been the match-winner for RCB, has delivered well with calmness at the crease, and is using his experience well in crunch moments. With these performances, he is certainly knocking on the doors of the Indian team and has a motive of helping the side secure a trophy in the T20 World Cup 2022.
According to a report by InsideSport, it is being said that DK might be considered for the 5-match T20I series against South Africa, scheduled to be played in June this year.
“The door is open to all who have been consistently performing. We have a few series before the T20 World Cup and if he continues to perform, he will be in consideration,” One of the Team India selectors was quoted as saying.
“He has been fantastic so far, no doubt. But he has played just six games and there are 8-10 games left. If he continues to do well, we have the South Africa series just after the IPL. If the team management and other selectors agree, I don’t see a reason why he should not be recalled,” the selector added.
However, a tough competition awaits the veteran wicketkeeper in form of Rishabh Pant, Sanju Samson, and Shreyas Iyer in the middle order. It is expected that Pant will be the first-choice wicketkeeper for the Indian team, irrespective of his form.