Dinesh Karthik announces retirement from representative cricket

Dinesh Karthik officially announced his retirement from all forms of cricket on Saturday, June 1. Karthik, who last played for the Royal Challengers Bangalore in the IPL eliminator last month, represented India for the final time in the 2022 T20 World Cup group stage match against Bangladesh.

Karthik confirmed his retirement from competitive cricket on his 39th birthday, ending a 17-season-long IPL career. The wicketkeeper-batter took to social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to share his retirement note. He expressed his gratitude for the love, support, and affection he received in recent days and thanked his fans for making this feeling possible.

In his retirement note, Karthik wrote, "I am overwhelmed with the affection, support, and love I have received over the past few days. I am deeply grateful and sincerely thank the fans who have made this feeling possible. After much contemplation, I have decided to step away from playing representative cricket. I officially announce my retirement and am ready for new challenges ahead."

After RCB's defeat in the IPL eliminator, Karthik received a guard of honor from his teammates, signaling his impending retirement. Throughout his 257-game IPL career, Karthik played for RCB, Kolkata Knight Riders, Mumbai Indians, Delhi Daredevils, and Punjab Kings.

Karthik made his debut for India in the 50-over format against England at Lord's in September 2004. Over nearly two decades, he has represented India in 26 Tests, 94 ODIs, and 60 T20Is. His contributions to Indian cricket and the IPL have left an indelible mark on the sport.

**Career Highlights:**

- **International Career:**
  - Tests: 26 matches
  - ODIs: 94 matches
  - T20Is: 60 matches

- **IPL Career:**
  - Matches: 257
  - Teams: RCB, KKR, Mumbai Indians, Delhi Daredevils, Punjab Kings

As Dinesh Karthik transitions to the next phase of his life, his fans and the cricketing world celebrate his illustrious career and wish him the best in his future endeavors.