Dinesh Karthik announces retirement from all forms of cricket

Dinesh Karthik, who officially retired from the Indian Premier League (IPL) in the aftermath of the 2024 season, has now confirmed that he is stepping away from the sport altogether, bringing to an end a 22-year-long career. The announcement puts to bed speculations about the wicketkeeper batter, who turned 39 earlier today, playing in other franchise leagues as a freelancer. 

“Having given it plenty of thought for some time now, I have decided to move on from playing representative cricket. I officially announce my retirement and put my playing days behind me as I square up for the new challenges that lie ahead,” Karthik said in an official statement.

“I have been overwhelmed by the affection, support and love I have received in the last few days. My deepest gratitude and sincere thanks to all the fans who made this feeling possible."

Karthik announced even before IPL 2024 began that the 17th edition of the tournament would be his last. And the veteran went out with a bang, smashing 326 runs at an average of 36.22 and strike rate of 187.36, proving to be one of the best finishers in the competition.

The 39-year-old signs off with over 7,000 runs in all three formats (First-class, List A and T20s).

In an interview with Cricbuzz earlier this week, he stated that he sees himself doing two things in the foreseeable future: coaching and broadcasting. 

“Coaching and broadcasting is what I'm thinking I'll mix in the foreseeable future,” Karthik had said.

“It's not as simple as it looks. But I must admit, a few of the players who've played in RCB itself are very keen to come and work with me in Chennai. So, that is a positive. It's very exciting. 

“Though to become a solid coach, there are so many more areas that you need to work on and get better. It's a learning curve. My coaching career is at its infancy. So let's see, for the moment all I can say, it's a pretty exciting start to even know that people are even interested to come and train with you and very much like the tennis format where they want to do the one-on-one.”