IPL 2019 | Dinesh Karthik will stick to the 'finisher' role for KKR, says Simon Katich

The new look Kolkata Knight Riders squad impressed everyone with their fearless approach to every game as they narrowly missed out on making the final last year after losing to Kane Williamson-led Sunrisers Hyderabad. Simon Katich, head coach of KKR, is optimistic of his side’s chances this time around as well and he clarified that club captain Dinesh Karthik will be important over the course of the tournament.

The former Australian batsman added that Karthik will continue to play as a ‘finisher’ in the Kolkata-based team just like he has been playing in the senior Indian team as well.

"I think what Dinesh brings in his experience (in crunch situations). He has played that role very well for India and for us. You know what you will get from him down the innings. He is hard to bowl to. So he will be in the mix for the World Cup. It will give the Indian selectors a tough job to pick with so much talent around," Katich told reporters on Thursday.

Katich also lavished praise on India youngster, Shubman Gill, who was picked up by KKR during the 2018 auction. Gill made his ODI debut for India in the series against New Zealand and Katich believes that the Punjab-born star will go on to become a permanent member of the Indian cricket team in the future.

"I am sure pretty soon he will be permanently in the Indian setup. He obviously has got talent and had a fantastic IPL last year," Katich added.

In addition to that, the left-hander also heaped praise on the current Australian team who managed to upset India on their home tur.

"Their form hasn't been brilliant in the last few months but World Cup cricket is all about playing six weeks brilliantly," said Katich, who was an integral part of both Tests and ODI side during his playing days. It doesn't matter what happened previously. It's all about performing under pressure situations in knockout style. Smith and Warner will be hungry.

"They are hurt by the experience. What happened has happened. They will come back hungry and if they come back firing and rest of the boys are in form, then it will be good," Katich concluded.

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