Experienced wicketkeeper-batsman Dinesh Karthik recently discussed the favourable developments in Indian cricket during the year 2023. Despite facing disappointments in key ICC events, he highlighted positive moments, such as Virat Kohli’s strong comeback and Rohit Sharma’s impressive performance in the 2023 World Cup during a conversation with Cricbuzz at the 1:40 mark.
“There have been many, many good things that have happened. Jasprit Bumrah’s return to cricket is a very, very important moment for us. The way Virat Kohli has just come back in all formats, the man has got the skill, hunger, and determination.”
“Rohit Sharma’s incredible batting during the World Cup, just standing up and wanting to be counted as a leader. KL Rahul’s comeback to international has been a great success story as well, not only as a batter but as a keeper as well.”
In evaluating Team India’s overall displays, the cricketer-commentator expressed the view that the team showcased some of its finest cricket in the current year, and went on to say:
“2023 has been a year which has seen some of the best cricket Team India have played and some really heartbreaking days as well. Most of the bilaterals, I think we have aced, as always. The 50-over World Cup that happened in India was a very special one. India played some brilliant cricket, barring the finals. As people would say, didn’t just go our way and Australia played way better on that day.”
The conclusion of India’s year featured a decisive loss in the Boxing Day Test against South Africa in Centurion. Led by Rohit Sharma, the Indian side suffered a series-opening defeat by an innings and 32 runs.
“We have had a pretty disappointing year” – Dinesh Karthik talking about India not winning an ICC Trophy
In 2023, India reached the finals of both the World Test Championship (WTC) and the 50-over World Cup but fell short, losing to Australia in both significant matches.
Discussing India’s loss in the WTC final, Karthik expressed his opinion, as mentioned in the source:
“If we look at how things have panned out, we have had a pretty disappointing year in terms of the World Test Championship final not going exactly how we planned it out. The Asia Cup was a very good tournament for us yet again; we completely dominated that.”
Karthik expressed confidence that India would bounce back in the second and final Test against South Africa, mentioning:
“As I look at it, I think the Indian team is in a very, very strong territory. Yes, we have had a tough Test match, but things will definitely change. I am very confident this Indian team will put up a way better performance and push South Africa the next time around.”
The upcoming India vs. South Africa second Test is scheduled at Newlands in Cape Town from January 3rd to 7th.
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