He scored 4,842 runs in his IPL career.
Former India and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik has been appointed as India captain for the upcoming Hong Kong Sixes 2025. Karthik announced his retirement from all formats of cricket on the occasion of his 39th birthday. However, he had featured in the SA20 2024-25 season for the Paarl Royals.
On his appointment, he said, “It is an absolute honour leading Team India at the Hong Kong Sixes, a tournament with such rich history and global recognition. I look forward to leading a group of players who have such incredible records to their credit, and together we will aim to bring joy to the fans and play cricket that is both fearless and entertaining.”
The 40-year-old currently serves his former franchise as the batting coach and mentor. He played an instrumental role in the auction too, eventually helping RCB lift their maiden IPL trophy.
Karthik will take over the reins from Robin Uthappa, who led India last year. Cricket Hong Kong confirmed the news on September 23 via a social media post. India had produced an underwhelming performance under Uthappa’s leadership as they made a group stage exit, losing all their matches. Apart from Uthappa, Kedar Jadhav, Manoj Tiwary, Shahbaz Nadeem, Shreevats Goswami, Stuart Binny, and Bharat Chipli were also part of the squad.
“We are proud to welcome Dinesh Karthik as the Captain of Team India for the Hong Kong Sixes 2025. With his vast international experience, sharp leadership skills, and explosive batting, Dinesh will bring both inspiration and intensity to the tournament. His appointment reflects the spirit of the Sixes — fearless, entertaining, and world-class,” wrote Hong Kong cricket on their X (formerly Twitter) handle.
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This marks Karthik’s second stint in the tournament. He last featured in the 2011-12 edition, where he had captained India. In his first stint, the wicketkeeper-batter scored 92 runs from four games at a strike rate of 340.74 with 11 fours and seven sixes. His best score was a nine-ball 32 against England before he retired out.
The Tamil Nadu player will be accompanied by his teammate Ravichandran Ashwin, marking his maiden appearance on the field following his retirement from the IPL.
The 2025 edition of the Hong Kong Sixes will run from November 7 to 9 at the Tin Kwong Road Cricket Ground. The event will host 12 countries battling for the silverware.
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