Picture Credit: X

Picture Credit: X

On Saturday, January 11, former India cricketer and wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik made his SA20 debut with Paarl Royals. Karthik, who retired from international cricket after the conclusion of IPL 2024, became the first Indian to feature in the South African T20 League (SA20) as he took the field for the Royals in their match against SunRisers Eastern Cape at the Boland Park.

Although, the 39-year-old did not take the field with the bat, he was seen adhering to his wicketkeeping duties. During Paarl Royals’ season opener, Karthik hailed the T20 league as the best after IPL, citing the competitiveness it has as the major reason for joining it.

This is the best competition after the IPL: Dinesh Karthik on SA20

Speaking on the microphone while keeping the wickets for the Royals, the former Indian wicketkeeper-batter called SA20 as the best league. “A couple of reasons I joined this league,” Karthik said. “I genuinely believe this is the best competition after the IPL. I wanted to play some real competitive cricket, and I don’t think there is a better tournament than this. Also, I’ve always wanted to be part of the Royals setup. Many of my friends have played for the Royals, so when the opportunity came, I was happy to accept it,” he further added.

It is to be noted that Dinesh Karthik replaced England’s limited overs skipper Jos Buttler in the Paarl Royals squad for the 2025 season. The former Indian keeper also spoke of the talent South Africa boasts of saying, “A lot of good talent out here. The first couple of days, when I came out here, I was pretty amazed to see how much talent is in this league. It’s a good squad, a good tournament, and I’m really looking forward to gelling with the boys.”

Karthik, who is closely associated with cricket, taking up the commentator’s role a few years ago, will take up a new role as batting coach and mentor with Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the upcoming edition of IPL.