Dinesh Karthik was selected in India’s T20I squad against South Africa for the five-match series, which starts on June 9. The Royal Challengers Bangalore wicketkeeper-batter described the latest recall into the national set-up as  his ‘most special comeback’. 

Karthik has been in and out of the Indian squad since his career began in 2004. The 36-year-old has played 26 Tests, 94 ODIs and 32 T20s for India, scoring 1025, 1752 and 399 runs in the formats. He last played 

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Last year, Karthik stepped down as Kolkata Knight Riders skipper mid-way through the season. He then joined the commentary panel for the India vs England home series. The 36-year-old was not retained by KKR in 2022 and was picked by the Royal Challengers Bangalore for Rs 5.50 crore. 

He has put up a stellar season. Karthik has scored 287 runs in 14 games at an average of 57.40 and strike rate of 191.33. He has remained unbeaten on nine occassions. 

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“This is my most special comeback because a lot of people had given up on me. For me to comeback and do what I did, practice the way I did, so many special things have happened in the lead up to the rock-shell and how I practiced post that,” Karthik told the RCB website.

He praised the Royal Challengers Bangalore team management for backing him strongly for the finisher’s role.

“I think the clarity that they gave me for me to execute the role that I wanted to do, in many ways I am indebted to RCB for picking me and giving me that role, believing in me and then me coming out here and trying to do my best for team RCB. So, it’s all and all a very very happy feeling.” 

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Dinesh Karthik’s goal is to make it to India’s squad for the T20 World Cup, which will be held in Australia in October-November. 

“There are so many young boys who would be putting up their name for selection, to see the skillset that is out there and believe that this is the guy we need for the World Cup. I think it is a very very humbling feeling. I know that journey is still there to the World Cup but being a part of the scheme of things and getting the opportunity to showcase my skills, I am very proud of it,” he added.