World Cup 2019 | Dinesh Karthik can play no.4, finisher as well as opener if needed, says Abhishek Nayar
A confident Abhishek Nayar has stated that Dinesh Karthik could play any role Indian team would want him to play, be it the vacant no.4 position, a finisher’s role, or even as an opener. He assured that Karthik has been improving his form for KKR after his recent struggles in the lower order.
The only player getting the most flak post the World Cup announcement by BCCI has been Dinesh Karthik. The veteran was chosen by the MSK-Prasad led selectors based on his experience over emerging star Rishabh Pant and people haven’t taken it well. With the selectors stating clearly about the number four position going to Vijay Shankar, Karthik’s mentor Nayar was confident that he would play a bigger role than just a backup wicket-keeper and could bat anywhere the team would ask him to.
"He can play a Kedar Jadhav finisher's role to a No 4 batsman's role if needed. He can even open if needed," said Nayar, reported PTI.
"Being a good fielder adds that value. Of course he's back-up wicketkeeper, but I'm pretty sure that the management will look at him as a specialist batsman if someone is slightly out of form. You never know what opportunities this game can bring to you. For his point of view, it's about being just prepared and being ready for that opportunity so that when it comes he grabs it with both hands."
One of the biggest reasons for the increase in Pant’s advocates was the terrific form of the Delhi Capitals star in the IPL. Playing eight games so far, the southpaw has accumulated 245 at a strike rate of 161.18. Contrary to that, Kolkata Knight Riders skipper Karthik could manage just 111 in the same number of matches.
However, Nayar has rubbished all concerns about his cureent form stating that the batsman has been working on his form and shortcomings and would come back stronger.
"There's no area of concern, he's batting well. It's about capitalising those last two-three overs. In this break, he will come back and pick up those 30-40 quick runs in the last overs which he's very good at. For him, KKR matters a lot, though the World Cup selection was really important. It's one thing he's committed to and makes sure that he gives his best no matter what.
"There will be a certain level of happiness, I would not say satisfaction. But the determination to make sure KKR does well has always been there," Nayar concluded.
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