Wicketkeeper-batsman Dinesh Karthik has confirmed that he has absolutely no plans of following in the foot-steps of Ambati Rayudu and announce retirement from Indian domestic First-Class cricket.

Karthik, who has been a regular part of the ODI and T20I set-up, last played a Test for India during the long tour of England this year. But the 33-year-old hasn't yet given up on wearing the prestigious whites for his country once again.

The affable cricketer wants to turn up for Tamil Nadu and win his state the great Ranji Trophy for this season.

"No, I haven’t thought about it(retiring from red-ball game to increase focus on limited overs cricket) because I really enjoy playing for Tamil Nadu. I think one of the joys of the sport is playing for the state," Dinesh told PTI, ahead of Ranji Trophy Elite Group ‘B’ match between Tamil Nadu and Kerala beginning Thursday, December 6, "The minute I think that people see me as a burden playing for Tamil Nadu I will take a step back.”

"I will play for Tamil Nadu as long as possible only because of the dream of winning that one title for me – the Ranji Trophy. Still not been able to achieve it, so I will keep trying as many years as I can play for Tamil Nadu."

Karthik also reaffirmed that while the intent and ambition are to find a place in the squad for the ICC Cricket World Cup next year, he still takes each day as it comes and is enjoying his cricket at the moment. 

"It has been a phenomenal year. Very happy to be in the place that I am. There’s a lot to look forward to in the coming year. Actually, it is interesting times," Karthik said, having just come back from Australia after the three-match T20I series. 

"For me, every match is an opportunity to do well, as cliched as it sounds, that’s how I have been playing in the last few years. Next is the Ranji Trophy. I need to do well. My endeavor is to help Tamil Nadu qualify."

"The T20s, ODIs, and Tests all those will fall in place once I try and keep doing well consistently, it is a confidence sport," he signed off.