Dinesh Karthik Joins Paarl Royals for SA20 Season.

Posted 2 months ago

Dinesh Karthik is poised to make history as the first Indian player in the SA20 league. ESPNcricinfo reveals that Karthik will join Paarl Royals as an overseas player for the upcoming season, kicking off on January 9.

The SA20 will be Dinesh Karthik's first tournament since retiring from Indian cricket in June on his 39th birthday.

After 180 international matches, Karthik's last appearance was with Royal Challengers Bengaluru in IPL 2024. He has since joined RCB as a mentor and batting coach.

On the T20 circuit, Karthik is highly regarded for his deep knowledge and experience in the format.

Currently covering The Hundred for Sky Sports, he has played 401 T20 matches and has represented six IPL teams, including leading Kolkata Knight Riders. Known for his fitness, Karthik missed only two matches in 17 IPL seasons.

The BCCI permits only retired Indian players to compete in overseas T20 leagues.

Last year, Ambati Rayudu played for St Kitts & Nevis Patriots in the CPL, while Robin Uthappa and Yusuf Pathan joined Dubai Capitals in the ILT20. Two years ago, Suresh Raina was with Deccan Gladiators in the Abu Dhabi T10.