Cricket

Dinesh Karthik Embraces New Challenge: Javelin Throw with Neeraj ChopraFollowing his retirement from the Indian Premier League (IPL), veteran wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik has embarked on a unique adventure: javelin throw. In a viral video shared on social media, Karthik was seen practicing the sport alongside Olympic champion Neeraj Chopra.The video captures a light-hearted moment between the two athletes. Karthik, clad in a casual t-shirt and shorts, prepares for his throw while Chopra offers encouragement. "Chalo ho jayega Dinesh bhai," Chopra says, instilling confidence in the cricketer. Karthik then executes a commendable javelin throw, showcasing his athleticism and determination.Prior to his foray into javelin throw, Karthik had announced his retirement from the IPL, citing mental challenges as a significant factor. Despite being physically fit to continue playing for another three years, Karthik emphasized the mental demands of the game as a determining factor in his decision.Speaking to Cricbuzz, Karthik highlighted his robust physical condition throughout his cricketing career, expressing gratitude for never missing a game due to injury. However, he acknowledged the mental aspect of the sport as more challenging, particularly concerning his ability to maintain motivation and adapt to fluctuating playing opportunities."It was all about the mental side of things, whether I'll be able to push as much in the lead-up to the tournament, whether if I don't play as many matches, will I be okay with it," Karthik elaborated on the mental challenges he faced.Karthik's venture into javelin throw is a testament to his versatility and willingness to embrace new experiences. It also highlights the growing popularity of the sport in India, inspired by Chopra's historic Olympic gold medal.

Dinesh Karthik, the veteran wicketkeeper-batter, has announced his retirement from the Indian Premier League (IPL), citing mental fatigue as the primary reason. Despite being in peak physical condition, Karthik believes that the mental demands of the game have taken their toll.Karthik, 38, has been a constant presence in the IPL since its inception in 2008, playing 257 matches and becoming the joint second-most capped player in IPL history alongside Rohit Sharma. However, despite his physical fitness, Karthik admits that the mental aspect of the game has become increasingly challenging."I think I am physically very much prepared to play for another three years," Karthik said. "But it was all about the mental side of things, whether I'll be able to push as much in the lead-up to the tournament, whether if I don't play as many matches, will I be okay with it."Karthik's decision to retire comes after a challenging IPL season last year. However, he remained motivated by his intrinsic drive and the belief that if he got one chance, he would make the most of it."I am internally very, very motivated," Karthik said. "I just believed if I get one chance, I should make the most of it. I never cribbed. I was always thinking like I got a chance but I missed it. I got a tournament here, but I probably could have done better in this match. And that kept me going."As he navigates retirement, Karthik is keeping himself occupied with family functions and reflecting on his illustrious career. He admits that the emotions leading up to his final match were a mix of relief and sadness."I don't think it's sunk in yet," Karthik said. "It's a tad bit emotional, a tad bit relief. In a way, I was mentally prepared for whenever it had to happen. But I was so much more prepared for 18th May."

Virat Kohli, the legendary Indian batter, has expressed his heartfelt gratitude to Dinesh Karthik, the veteran wicketkeeper-batter, following his retirement from the Indian Premier League (IPL) after the conclusion of Royal Challengers Bangalore's (RCB) campaign. Kohli described Karthik as a wise and honest individual who provided him with invaluable support during a challenging phase in his IPL career.Karthik, who joined RCB from Kolkata Knight Riders in 2022, played his final IPL match on Wednesday when RCB was eliminated by Rajasthan Royals in the playoffs. In a special tribute video released by RCB, Kohli shared his admiration for Karthik's character and cricketing abilities."Off the field, I have had some really nice and interesting conversations with him. He is a wise man, and has great knowledge about a lot of things, not just cricket," Kohli said.Kohli recalled the 2022 season when he struggled for form, averaging just 22.73 with 341 runs from 16 matches. Karthik's guidance and support during that difficult period proved to be invaluable."I have thoroughly enjoyed my conversations with him. Even in that phase in 2022 when I did not have a great IPL season, I was really struggling for confidence," Kohli said. "He sat me down a couple of times and just gave me a very honest explanation of how he saw things and maybe I am not able to see them myself."Karthik, a seasoned campaigner in the IPL, has represented six franchises since the league's inception in 2008. He has amassed 4,842 runs in 257 matches, including 22 fifties.Kohli praised Karthik's technical prowess and versatility as a batter. "I always looked at Dinesh and felt like he was such a correct player technically that he could adapt to any kind of role that's been given to him," Kohli said. "I remember watching him in the 2013 season where he got 600 runs or something and he batted brilliantly at three.""I saw him play shots which were like 'wow'. I think he's done brilliantly to switch and become a renowned finisher."Kohli expressed his hope that Karthik would continue to be involved with the RCB franchise in some capacity. "I wish him all the very best for all his future endeavors moving forward," Kohli said. "...because his expertise when it comes to cricket is priceless. I think he's of great value to this franchise."

Dinesh Karthik: RCB Fans Surpass Virat Kohli in SignificanceDinesh Karthik, the recently retired cricketer, has expressed his profound gratitude for the unwavering support of Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) fans, declaring them to be even greater than the iconic Virat Kohli.Karthik's IPL journey concluded on Wednesday with RCB's elimination from the title race after a loss to Rajasthan Royals. During his four-year stint with RCB (2015 and 2022-24), Karthik witnessed firsthand the immense passion and loyalty of the franchise's fanbase."RCB is extraordinary, and it's all about the fans," Karthik emphasized. "Virat Kohli is a huge part of RCB, but the fans are even bigger. The love I've received from them is overwhelming. I believe that the support of RCB fans played a significant role in my selection for the 2022 T20 World Cup."Karthik also acknowledged the invaluable lessons he learned from his teammate, Virat Kohli. "I've always admired Virat and learned a lot from him. He's one of the greatest ever," Karthik said.In IPL 2024, Karthik made a significant contribution to RCB's campaign, scoring 326 runs in 15 matches at an impressive strike rate of 187.35.Karthik's retirement from all forms of cricket has not diminished his passion for the game. He has been named to the commentary panel for the upcoming T20 World Cup in the Americas, which begins on June 2.

Following their elimination from the Indian Premier League (IPL) playoffs, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) head coach Andy Flower has ruled out applying for the position of India's head coach. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) had invited applications for the role, with the tenure starting from July 1, 2022, and concluding on December 31, 2027.Flower emphasized his commitment to franchise cricket, stating, "I am happy with my involvement in the franchise league at the moment. I am really enjoying it. It is fascinating stuff and I have worked with some amazing organizations and I am happy with that at the moment."Regarding wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik's future, Flower hinted at a potential transition into coaching. "He quite likes the idea of coaching as well -- helping and working with other people which I am not surprised about. He will be a great success when he does that as well," Flower said.In the eliminator match against Rajasthan Royals (RR), RCB posted 172/8, with Rajat Patidar, Virat Kohli, and Mahipal Lomror contributing significant runs. However, RR bowlers, led by Avesh Khan, restricted RCB's scoring.In the chase, RR got off to a strong start with Yashasvi Jaiswal and Tom Kohler Cadmore, but RCB bowlers applied pressure and picked up wickets. Riyan Parag, Shimron Hetmyer, and Rovman Powell then led RR's charge in the latter stages, securing a four-wicket victory with an over to spare.Mohammed Siraj was the standout bowler for RCB, while Ravichandran Ashwin, who also scored 26 runs, was named 'Player of the Match.' RR will now face Sunrisers Hyderabad in Qualifier 2 on May 24, with the winner advancing to the final against Kolkata Knight Riders on May 26.

Dinesh Karthik, a stalwart of Indian cricket, bid farewell to the Indian Premier League (IPL) as his team, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), bowed out of the competition on Wednesday. Karthik's final game in the T20 league was RCB's defeat against Rajasthan Royals (RR) in the Eliminator.Karthik's departure from the IPL was marked with a touching tribute from his RCB teammates, who gave him a guard of honor after the team's elimination. The franchise also shared a heartfelt video featuring interviews with Virat Kohli and Karthik's wife, Deepika Pallikal.Kohli, RCB's former skipper, recalled his first encounter with Karthik in 2009, describing him as an "amusing, hyper-active, confused person" who was always on the move. However, Kohli also praised Karthik's exceptional talent and his unwavering honesty and courage."Off the field, I have had some really nice and interesting conversations with him," Kohli said. "He is a wise man, has great knowledge about a lot of things, not just cricket. I have thoroughly enjoyed my conversations with him."Kohli shared an anecdote from 2022 when Karthik sat him down and provided an honest assessment of his struggles during that IPL season. "He gave me a very honest explanation of how he is seeing things and maybe I am not able to see them myself," Kohli said.Pallikal, a professional squash player, shared some memorable moments from Karthik's career and admitted that it would be difficult for him to move on from the game. She urged him to spend more time with her and their children now that he is retiring.Karthik's departure from the IPL marks the end of an era for Indian cricket. He has been a consistent performer for both India and RCB, known for his aggressive batting and astute wicket-keeping skills. His retirement will leave a void in the IPL and Indian cricket as a whole.

Dinesh Karthik, the veteran wicketkeeper-batter, has hinted at a potential retirement from the Indian Premier League (IPL) after Royal Challengers Bangalore's (RCB) elimination from the tournament.RCB's hopes of a fairytale season were shattered on Wednesday when they lost to Rajasthan Royals in the Eliminator. Karthik, who has been a key player for RCB, was visibly emotional after the match.During the post-match presentation, Karthik thanked the fans for their support and hinted at his retirement. "I'm not sure if I'll be back next year," he said. "I've had a great time here, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to have played for RCB."Karthik's teammates gave him a guard of honor as he walked back to the dressing room. Virat Kohli, the former RCB captain, hugged Karthik while he was fighting back tears.If this proves to be Karthik's final IPL season, he will have finished his career with an impressive record. He has scored 4,842 runs in 257 matches, including 22 fifties. He has played for six different teams during his 17-year IPL career, including Delhi Daredevils, Punjab Kings, Mumbai Indians, Gujarat Lions, Kolkata Knight Riders, and RCB.Karthik has been a valuable asset for RCB, especially in the death overs. His ability to hit big shots and finish matches has been crucial for the team's success.Should Karthik retire from the IPL, it will mark the end of an era for the tournament. He is one of the most experienced and respected players in the league, and his absence will be felt.

Dinesh Karthik, the seasoned wicketkeeper-batter, has emerged as a pivotal figure in Royal Challengers Bangalore's remarkable resurgence in the Indian Premier League (IPL). After teetering on the brink of elimination, RCB has strung together six consecutive victories, setting the stage for a thrilling Eliminator clash against Rajasthan Royals on May 22.Karthik, who will turn 39 soon, attributes RCB's newfound momentum to the confidence that comes with winning. "Momentum in this tournament is directly proportional to confidence," he told The Hindu. "When you win a few, the confidence increases, and they keep feeding off each other."The veteran cricketer believes that the current RCB side is unburdened by the weight of past failures. Despite reaching the playoffs thrice between 2020 and 2022, RCB has not reached the summit clash since 2016. "It's been a completely different year, a different set of people and players," explained Karthik. "I don't think that is going to have any sort of bearing leading into the Playoffs. Completely different scenarios."Karthik's fearless approach has been a hallmark of RCB's recent success. He emphasizes that the team will not alter its aggressive style despite the heightened stakes of the playoffs. "It wouldn't change at all," he said. "It will be about recreating what we have done in these six games."The wicketkeeper-batter's contributions have extended beyond his batting prowess. He has also played a crucial role in guiding the team's young bowlers, including the likes of Akash Deep and Harshal Patel. "I try to help them as much as I can," said Karthik. "I try to give them confidence, and I try to make them understand the game better."As RCB prepares for the Eliminator, Karthik remains optimistic about the team's chances. "We have a good team, and we are playing well," he said. "We just need to continue doing what we have been doing, and we will be in a good position to win."

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) women's team has defied all odds to secure a top-four spot in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 playoffs. After a dismal start to the season, losing seven of their first eight matches, the team has staged a remarkable comeback, winning six consecutive games to qualify for the knockout stage.Shreyanka Patil, a star player for RCB, has been vocal in her response to critics who doubted the team's ability to make the playoffs. In a social media post, she wrote, "There is a 1% chance... and sometimes that is good enough." She urged those who had mocked the team to join the "RCB train" for a "crazy ride."RCB's resurgence has been fueled by a collective effort from the entire team. Wicket-keeper batter Dinesh Karthik, who has been a key figure in the team's success, gave a passionate speech in the dressing room after their victory against Chennai Super Kings (CSK)."People will always remember certain journeys," Karthik said. "The way we have come back after eight games, we needed to win six, people will remember this team."Karthik emphasized the significance of RCB's achievement, stating that it will inspire other teams in the future. "Every year in this tournament, when you hit the seven-game mark, there will be one or two teams which would have probably won one or two and they will look to us and say, 'RCB did it. That was special. We are going to try and repeat what RCB did'."RCB's next challenge will be the Eliminator match against Rajasthan Royals. The winner of that match will face the loser of Qualifier 1 in Qualifier 2. The winner of Qualifier 2 will then square off against the finalist (winner of Qualifier 1) for the title.