Dinesh Karthik played for KKR from 2018 to 2021.
In the big game, KKR completely blew away SRH, registered an emphatic eight-wicket victory to clinch their third IPL title.
Following their triumph, former RCB wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik lauded the Shreyas Iyer-led side and congratulated all the team members, support staff and franchise owner Shah Rukh Khan.
Notably, Karthik was signed by KKR in 2018 and was named the captain of the side. He guided Knight Riders to the playoffs in the same year.
After leading them in 2019, Dinesh Karthik stepped down as skipper midway through the 2020 season with Eoin Morgan replacing him. Karthik was also a part of KKR when they finished as runner-up in 2021.
“Unreal performance from them, very very happy for them from the start. I think it has been a tough journey they’ve waited a decade to get this title back. I know how hard it has been for them, being around them personally as well. Congrats to Shahrukh Khan and Venky Mysore who’ve worked their backsides off to be where they are today. Very good inclusion in Gautam Gambhir, there are many from the support staff as well, you know Abhishek Nayar winning his first title after being around for 17 years,” Karthik said while speaking on Cricbuzz.
He also praised the KKR fans for their strong support for the team despite their trophy-less run for a decade.
“So there’s plenty to be happy about but I’m really happy for the team and the city of Kolkata because they like other franchises have a massive fan following and they come in big numbers. It’s a big stadium to fill up and they come in every time the match is played there. Very well led by Shreyas Iyer, good performances by every player. Winning an IPL title is not easy, I’ve been part of this tournament. You go through an emotional roller coaster for about six weeks. It takes every inch of energy out of you. To be where they are, very proud of them and very very happy for them,” Karthik added.
Meanwhile, Dinesh Karthik called time on his IPL career after RCB's loss to RR in the Eliminator clash last week.
Karthik’s IPL journey, which started in the inaugural 2008 edition itself, included stints with six different franchises, showcasing his adaptability and commitment. Starting with Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals), he later played for Kings XI Punjab (now Punjab Kings), Mumbai Indians, now-defunct Gujarat Lions, Kolkata Knight Riders and Royal Challengers Bengaluru.
In 17 IPL seasons, Dinesh Karthik aggregated 4842 runs in 257 matches at a strike rate of 135.36 with 22 half-centuries. He batted at various positions all these years but his days at the RCB as a finisher over the past three seasons stood out.