Among the top 40 run-scorers in the ongoing IPL 2024 season, no one has a better strike rate than Dinesh Karthik (205.45). The 38-year-old wicketkeeper-batter has been the most impressive finisher in the tournament, making a compelling case for his inclusion in India’s T20 World Cup squad.
Apart from Dinesh Karthik and Jitesh Sharma, no other Indian wicketkeeper plays the role of a finisher in the ongoing IPL. Sanju Samson, Ishan Kishan, and KL Rahul bat in the top order, while Rishabh Pant is the only remaining keeper in contention who bats in the middle order.
While Karthik’s age might raise eyebrows, his experience and proven track record as a finisher work in his favor. The Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) batter has been excelling in this role for some time now, making him a valuable asset for the Indian team.
Karthik’s past performances in T20 World Cups might not inspire confidence, with only 71 runs at an average of 8.87 and a strike rate of 97.26 in 8 innings. However, things have taken a different turn this season. Having announced his retirement after IPL 2024, Karthik is batting with freedom. So far, he has scored 226 runs at an impressive strike rate of 205.45 in 7 matches.
Rohit & Kohli to Help Dinesh Karthik?
With Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma expected to be part of the T20 World Cup squad, India’s batting order could see some changes. Jaiswal might miss out, with the two senior pros opening the batting. Suryakumar Yadav, who typically bats at number 3, could be pushed down to number 4 if Kohli bats at 3.
Hardik Pandya might occupy the number 5 spot, leaving just one spot remaining. Rinku Singh, another proven finisher, could compete with Dinesh Karthik for the final spot. However, Rinku cannot wicketkeep, and none of the other mentioned batters can either.
Given India’s need for Ravindra Jadeja as their all-rounder at number 7 and four proper bowlers to follow, the number 6 spot might go to Karthik, as there are no other lower-order wicketkeeper-batter options available.
