Veteran Indian wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik is set to feature in the upcoming edition of the Legends League Cricket (LLC). He announced his retirement from all forms of cricket in June this year following the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024. He last played competitive cricket for Royal challengers Bengaluru (RCB).
Karthik, known for his dynamic middle-order batting and sharp wicket-keeping skills, is poised to enter another pivotal stage in his esteemed career with the LLC. The 39-year-old expressed his excitement to join the LLC, noting he is prepared both mentally and physically.
“Playing at the Legends League Cricket is definitely something I am looking forward to after my retirement. I am up to the task both mentally and physically and look forward to playing the brand of cricket I have always enjoyed. Most importantly, to the fans, thank you for your constant support and I hope to entertain you once again on the field,” Karthik was quoted as saying by Times of India.
“We are very excited to have Dinesh Karthik join us. His flair and his penchant to finish matches and entertain the crowd will undoubtedly add value to the Legends League Cricket. We look forward to seeing him in action alongside other cricket legends further cementing our position as the 2nd innings for legendary cricketers,” said Raman Raheja, Co-founder of LLC.
Karthik has played 180 matches for India across all three formats and scored over 3463 runs. In his distinguished cricketing career, he has achieved a lone Test century and 17 half-centuries. He was equally notable as a wicketkeeper, with 172 dismissals to his name.
In IPL, the 39-year-old has represented six different franchises in 17 years. In 257 matches he accumulated 4842 runs, including 22 half-centuries at an average of 26.31. He made his IPL debut with Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals) in the first edition in 2008. He subsequently represented the Punjab Kings in 2011, and then,the Mumbai Indians, the Gujarat Lions, the Kolkata Knight Riders, and finally, the Royal Challengers Bangalore.
Looking ahead, the LLC 2024 is scheduled to begin in September, featuring retired cricket legends in a series of matches. The LLC player auction is set to be held on August 29 in New Delhi, where the six franchises vie for over 200 players. India Capitals, Gujarat Giants, Bhilwara Kings, Manipal Tigers, Urbanrisers Hyderabad, and Southern Superstars are the teams in the tournament. The Tigers are the defending champions having won the title after defeating Hyderabad in the final.
