World Cup 2019 I Better chance of making the eleven as specialist batsman, says Dinesh Karthik

04/16/2019

Dinesh Karthik has stated he has a better chance of making it to the World Cup playing eleven as a specialist batsman than MS Dhoni’s backup. The elated wicket-keeper batsman also admitted that it was like a dream come true for him after getting selected for the tournament after two editions.

After almost of year of excitement concerning Rishabh Pant succeeding Dhoni behind the stumps, Dinesh Karthik’s selection in the World Cup was definitely surprising and the Kolkata Knight Riders skipper admitted that he was quite anxious before the squad was announced. However, the BCCI selectors decided to go with experience over talent.

“Yes, I was anxious. Playing in the World Cup is big and everyone wants to be part of the experience. And after the team came out, it was both a feeling of relief and happiness.” said Karthick reported The Hindu.

Known to have good technique with the bat, Karthik hasn’t been new on the international circuit and has been playing for India since 2004. He has 91 ODIs and 1738 runs at an average of 31.04 to his name that includes nine centuries. And the 33-year-old knew that he wouldn’t be a regular in the side as Dhoni’s backup.

“M.S. Dhoni should keep wickets in all matches, and I would come into the picture only if he gets injured. It is as a specialist batsman that I have a better chance of making the eleven. I am capable of batting at No. 4, from where I can build an innings. I have performed the role in the past. I have also been coming later down the order and donned the role of a finisher.” he explained

Karthik also revealed that has no retirement plans as of now and he has been training hard to stick to the international level for the next five to six years.

“I am training hard and performing. I have not thought about ending my career in the next five to six years.” he concluded.