Former Indian cricketer and ex-Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik recently shared his surprise at surpassing the legendary MS Dhoni in total T20 runs. However, he expressed confidence that Dhoni would reclaim the lead once the 2025 IPL season kicks off on March 22.
In the recently concluded SA20, Karthik surpassed Dhoni’s tally of 7,432 T20 runs, reaching 7,537. However, with Dhoni returning for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in IPL 2025, he has a strong chance to overtake Karthik again. Meanwhile, Karthik will be the batting coach for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB).
Addressing the topic during a media interaction on Sunday, February 16, Karthik stated [via India Today]:
“It’s great to know that I overtook Dhoni, but it won’t be long before he overtakes me. It really wouldn’t trouble me much. I am happy for him to keep that record as the highest run-scorer as a wicketkeeper – I don’t even know what exactly it is. It’s okay, it’s nice to know, but it’s not something that I crave or really want.”
He further added:
“I played a lot of my cricket wanting to play for India. And when I retired from the IPL and playing in India six months ago… I think that was most important – trying to play for the country and doing well. I have never been someone who has been fascinated by records, probably because I don’t have great records. I don’t know,” Karthik, who shone for RCB even in the twilight of his IPL career.”
Dinesh Karthik faced challenges during his debut season in the SA20
Despite surpassing MS Dhoni in total T20 runs, Dinesh Karthik had a disappointing debut season in the SA20. Representing the Paarl Royals, the 39-year-old managed only 130 runs in 11 matches, averaging 21.66 with a strike rate of 121.49.
Although Karthik struggled, the Royals performed well in the league phase, securing second place with seven wins from 10 matches. However, their playoff journey ended disappointingly, as they were defeated by MI Cape Town and Sunrisers Eastern Cape in Qualifier 1 and Qualifier 2, preventing them from reaching the final.
Ultimately, MI Cape Town clinched their first SA20 title with a commanding 76-run victory over Sunrisers Eastern Cape in the final.
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