Dinesh Karthik Set To Make History, Will Play For Paarl Royals In SA20 2025
Former Indian Wicket-Keeper batsman Dinesh Karthik is all set to become the first Indian player to play in SA20 2025. Karthik is one of the best of his generation is renowned for his slog-hitting ability. Karthik, who was unlikely to return to competitive cricket will now Play for Paarl Royals in place of Jos Buttler who withdrew from the tournament. Interestingly, Karthik was also recently appointment as one of the ambassadors for the SA20 League.
After playing for the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) the IPL 2024 season, Karthik had declared his retirement from all forms of cricket at the age of 39. During the T20 World Cup, Karthik worked with the International Cricket Council (ICC) as their world feed commentator.
What Karthik said–
Karthik highlighted his fond memories of South Africa and also his eagerness to win the SA20 League with the Royals. He said that he couldn’t say no to the opportunity because of how special it would be to come back to playing competitive cricket and win this incredible competition with the Royals. He further said that he is looking forward to joining the group and contributing to what should be an exciting season.
Batter. Keeper. Finisher. 🇮🇳
Welcome to the #RoyalsFamily, @DineshKarthik 🔥 pic.twitter.com/f7bdcVFCRP
— Paarl Royals (@paarlroyals) August 6, 2024
Only retired Indian cricketers are permitted to participate in foreign leagues by The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). Apart from Karthik, former Indian cricketers Suresh Raina, Ambati Rayudu, Robin Uthappa have been playing in overseas franchise tournaments after retirement.
