Each time Dinesh Karthik walks out for India, he is living a dream. Representing the country does fire him up.
His has been an international career of a few heady moments and some stumbles. Given his ability, it has been one of unfulfilled promises.
Karthik, though, has not given in yet. This extremely fit 32-year-old dasher continues to be picked for India in the shorter formats.
In fact, his last two innings for India have been scores of 50 not out and 48 in the ODI and Twenty20 International, both at Jamaica, this year.
Then he found himself out of the side. Karthik said, “I had replaced Manish [Pandey]. Then they [the selectors] felt now that Manish was fit they should give him an opportunity. I was just waiting for my chance. I am happy I got it.”
The Tamil Nadu wicketkeeper-batsman, principally selected for his batting credentials these days, was picked in the Twenty20 series against Australia but did not get a game. Now, he is back in the ODI squad for the New Zealand series.
Karthik spoke about the mood in the Indian side. “It looked very positive, very vibrant, lots of good vibes. You feel very confident.”
Queried about his favourite batting slot, Karthik said, “Obviously, four is a great position for me. I have batted at this slot for Tamil Nadu in white-ball cricket and done well.”
Removing your ’keeping gloves and fielding at different positions can be demanding, but Karthik said, “Fielding anywhere has always been a part of my repertoire. Being a back-up for Dhoni, I keep practising ’keeping as well.”
Karthik was proud to be a part of this India team. “It’s going to leave a legacy as one of the greatest Indian teams seen.”
He added, “I am honoured and privileged to be in a team with batting and bowling depth, which is led by a fantastic leader and has some seriously good players. Kohli is vibrant, positive and always looking to win.”
Karthik revealed he had a conversation with India coach Ravi Shastri. “He’s fantastic. He had a chat with me.
“He told me what I should be working on and how he sees me for the future.
“I was very happy to have this conversation with Shastri. Sanjay Bangar, Bharat Arun and Sridhar, they make a formidable support staff.”
This feisty cricketer is not short of confidence as he prepares for another ride with Team India.
