How Dinesh Karthik fought his way back from oblivion?
Dinesh Karthik's rise is a story of hard work, perseverance and adaptability. The senior cricketer, who was ignored by the national selectors for several years, is now a part of Team India squad for the upcoming ICC World Cup 2019. He was selected over the young sensation Rishabh Pant. Let us take a look at DK's journey in the last couple of years.
How DK's value dropped considerably?
In 2015, Karthik attracted attention in the IPL auction after RCB bought him for Rs. 10.5 crore. But DK endured a horrible campaign, where he scored just 141 runs. He was released by RCB. In 2016, his value fell considerably as Gujarat Lions acquired him for Rs. 2.3 crore. Things were not going well, and he was not in the radar of the selectors.
DK turned to Nayar post dip in form
Abhishek Nayar played an important role in shaping DK's career to the position where he has reached. DK, who was earlier delivering consistent performance in the domestic circuit, saw a major dip in form in 2015-16. It affected his confidence as he played to perform both in the IPL as well as Ranji. He approached Nayar, who shaped his technique and it bore fruit.
DK's fortunes changed drastically post 2016
Nayar's influence and focus did the trick for DK. He performed well in IPL 2016 and 2017 for Gujarat Lions, as he scored 335 and 361 runs in these two editions. In the Ranji as well, DK smashed 704 runs in 10 matches for Tamil Nadu. This was a positive phase for the veteran. Nayar's hard work behind the scenes made all the difference.
DK earned the call-up in 2017
In 2017, DK made a return to Team India after a gap of three years. He represented the side against West Indies, New Zealand and Sri Lanka in eight ODIs. DK also returned to the T20I scene for India after seven long years.
2018 was a defining year for DK
2018 turned out to be the best year for DK. He was roped in by KKR. He was also handed the captaincy role. His innings in the T20 Nidahas Trophy final against Bangladesh was one of the best knocks ever played in a T20I. He slammed 29* from eight deliveries to win the match for India. Post that, DK became a regular for India.
DK an experienced name in India's World Cup squad
Karthik produced the goods for India whenever he was given a chance in the white-ball cricket. Since 2017, Karthik has played 20 ODIs for India. And he has helped India win several close matches. In the last 12 months, DK has transformed himself into a mature finisher. His experience played an important role in him getting selected for the World Cup.
