Cricket

Dinesh Karthik, the Royal Challengers Bangalore wicketkeeper-batter, has once again showcased his exceptional finishing abilities in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL). His explosive 83 off 35 balls against Sunrisers Hyderabad has reignited discussions about his potential inclusion in India's T20 World Cup squad.Karthik's impressive performance in the IPL has been consistent, with him scoring 226 runs in seven matches at a remarkable strike rate of 205.45 and an average of 75.33. His ability to accelerate the innings in the death overs has been crucial for RCB, despite their recent losses.During the match against Mumbai Indians, Team India captain Rohit Sharma was heard teasing Karthik on the stump mic, acknowledging his push for a spot in the T20 World Cup squad. Karthik's impressive batting performance has also caught the attention of former India cricketer Irfan Pathan.However, Pathan believes that the selectors should consider Rishabh Pant over Karthik for the major tournament. He argues that Pant is in better form and has proven his worth in the middle order.Despite Pathan's opinion, Karthik's experience and finishing skills remain valuable assets for the Indian team. He was a key member of the winning Indian teams in the 2007 T20 World Cup and the 2013 ICC Champions Trophy.As the 2024 T20 World Cup approaches, Karthik's name is once again in contention for a spot in the squad. His impressive batting performance in the IPL has demonstrated his ability to contribute to the team's success.Whether Karthik will make the journey to the T20 World Cup remains to be seen. The selectors will have a tough decision to make, weighing his experience and finishing skills against the form and potential of other players.

Shivam Dube Credits MS Dhoni for His Finishing Prowess, Guides CSK to Thrilling IPL Opener VictoryShivam Dube, the dynamic all-rounder for Chennai Super Kings (CSK), has attributed his ability to finish crucial games to the invaluable guidance of his legendary teammate, MS Dhoni. Dhoni, renowned as one of the greatest finishers in cricket history, has served as a mentor for Dube, who played a pivotal role in CSK's thrilling six-wicket victory over Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the IPL opener on Friday.Reflecting on his match-winning performance, Dube expressed his elation at contributing to CSK's triumph. "Finishing the game for Chennai is always something that amazes me. That's what I have learnt from Mahi bhai, and I try to do it every game," he stated.Dube's crucial 34-run cameo, coupled with an unbeaten 66-run partnership with Ravindra Jadeja, guided CSK to chase down RCB's target of 174 runs with confidence and composure. Acknowledging his partnership with CSK skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad, Dube praised Gaikwad's composed approach to the chase, highlighting the calming presence he brought to the team. "It was nice to have a partnership with Rutu. Obviously, he's done this for a long period for Chennai," he noted.Dube also commended the unwavering support from the Chepauk crowd, describing it as "incredible" and among the loudest he has ever experienced. "It was crazy; the crowd was incredible, one of the loudest I have ever experienced. It was unbelievable," he added.Looking ahead, CSK will face last season's runner-up, Gujarat Titans, in their next game, with Dube aiming to continue his impactful performances and keep the Chepauk crowd entertained with more victories.