Dinesh Karthik put on a show with the bat in India’s 82-run victory over South Africa in the fourth T20I at Rajkot on Friday (June 17).

Batting at No. 6, the veteran wicketkeeper slammed 55 off 27 balls, including 9 fours and 2 sixes, notching his maiden T20I fifty. Thanks to his 65-run stand with all-rounder Hardik Pandya, the hosts posted 169/6 on the board after a poor start.

In reply, South Africa’s innings folded for a paltry 87 in 16.5 overs as India levelled the five-match series 2-2.

For his spectacular knock, Karthik earned the Player-of-the-Match award and he spoke about the value of representing Team India after the game.

“I was very bull-headed, that I want to play this world cup. It’s very important for me because I’ve been around for so long and I know what it feels to be dropped. I also know how valuable it is to play for Team India.

“So, I wanted to do something special. And luckily, RCB gave me the platform, the role I really enjoyed doing. I practiced for it, I worked for it and to see it come through. And then, obviously, the love and affection from everybody who watched me all the way – from the captain to the coach, the selectors, going ahead and giving me this opportunity,” Karthik told Hardik Pandya during a conversation on bcci.tv.

“Now that I’m here, I want to be that guy who can help Team India win those tough games. I want to be in that situation, try and do something special whenever I go in because I’ve seen the team from outside. I know how tough it’s to be part of it. The kind of competition there is, the kind of talent in the dressing room is phenomenal,” he added.

The 37-year-old also opened up about the environment in the Indian dressing room, saying it is full of ‘youthful energy’ and he is totally enjoying it.

“The vibe is very different. I seem to enjoy it a lot. There’s quite a lot of youthful energy that goes around which genuinely I’m enjoying. At the same time, when given an opportunity, I want to show what I’m good at,” Karthik said.