NEW DELHI:Dinesh Karthik, the former Indian wicketkeeper-batsman, has decided to participate in the upcoming edition of theLegends League Cricket, just a day afterShikhar Dhawanmade a similar announcement.In June, Karthik had declared his retirement from all forms of cricket, effective after the conclusion of the 2024Indian Premier Leagueseason.He played his last IPL stint with theRoyal Challengers Bengaluru.Renowned for his explosive middle-order batting, agile wicket-keeping skills, and more recently, his outstanding commentary work, Karthik's entry into theLLCsignifies a fresh start in his distinguished career, reported IANS.The 39-year-old expressed his feelings about joining the LLC and said, "Playing at the Legends League Cricket is definitely something I am looking forward to after my retirement. I am up to the task both mentally and physically and look forward to playing the brand of cricket I have always enjoyed. Most importantly, to the fans, thank you for your constant support and I hope to entertain you once again on the field.âDinesh Karthik, a veteran Indian cricketer, has announced his retirement from all forms of the game. Throughout his career, he represented India in 180 matches across three formats, accumulating 3,463 runs, which included a solitary Test century and 17 half-centuries. Behind the stumps, Karthik was equally impressive, with 172 dismissals to his name, while also contributing in the outfield.In the Indian Premier League (IPL), Karthik had a remarkable journey spanning 17 years. He amassed 4,842 runs in 257 matches, a feat he shares with Rohit Sharma, and scored 22 half-centuries along the way. Karthik finished his IPL career with 4,842 runs in 257 matches (joint second-most with Rohit Sharma), studded with 22 fifties.Karthik's IPL career saw him represent six different franchises. He began his journey with the Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals) in the inaugural season in 2008. Subsequently, he played for the Punjab Kings in 2011 before moving on to the Mumbai Indians, Gujarat Lions, Kolkata Knight Riders, and finally, the Royal Challengers Bengaluru.Raman Raheja, Co-founder of LLC, welcomed Karthik to the league, said, "We are very excited to have Dinesh Karthik join us. His flair and his penchant to finish matches and entertain the crowd will undoubtedly add value to the Legends League Cricket. We look forward to seeing him in action alongside other cricket legends further cementing our position as the 2nd innings for legendary cricketers".The upcoming season of the Legends League Cricket is scheduled to kick off in September 2024, showcasing a roster of retired cricket icons participating in an exciting series of games.The LLC auction will take place on August 29 in New Delhi, where franchises will compete for the top players from both Indian and international cricket. Over 200 players will be up for grabs during this event.Karthik also recently signed withPaarl Royalsfor the third season ofSA20, making him the first Indian player to participate in the league.
