Former India wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik is all set to make his debut in the International League T20 (ILT20) after signing with Sharjah Warriorz for the upcoming season. He replaces Sri Lanka’s Kusal Mendis in the side coached by JP Duminy.
Karthik, who has been part of some of India’s biggest cricketing moments — including the 2007 T20 World Cup and the 2013 Champions Trophy — brings with him over two decades of experience and a reputation as one of T20 cricket’s most reliable finishers. He was also part of the Mumbai Indians’ 2013 IPL-winning squad and recently served as the batting coach for Royal Challengers Bengaluru during their maiden title-winning season in 2025.
A Proven Match-Winner with Massive T20 Experience
Known for his aggressive batting style in the death overs, Karthik has built a reputation for changing games in the final moments. Across 412 T20 matches, he has scored 7,437 runs with 35 half-centuries and a strike rate of 136.66. For India, he has featured in 60 T20Is, scoring 686 runs at a rapid 142.61 strike rate.
At Sharjah Warriorz, Karthik will join a power-packed squad featuring Tim David, Sikandar Raza, Tom Kohler-Cadmore, Johnson Charles, Saurabh Netravalkar, and skipper Tim Southee. Interestingly, Karthik shares a familiar bond with Tim David, having worked with him at RCB during IPL 2025.
Karthik Excited for ILT20 Debut
Speaking about his new challenge, Karthik said, “I am very excited to be joining the Sharjah Warriorz team for the ILT20 tournament. They are a young team, aspiring to do special things, and I’m happy to be part of it. Sharjah is one of those iconic stadiums you always want to play at. Being part of this franchise is truly a dream come true.”
Coach Duminy Welcomes a “Game-Changer”
Sharjah Warriorz head coach JP Duminy praised the veteran’s inclusion, calling him a vital addition to the team’s ambitions. “Dinesh Karthik is one of the most experienced and innovative minds in T20 cricket. The whole world knows what he’s capable of with the bat. His explosive batting, dynamic personality, and immense experience will benefit our younger players throughout the tournament. I look forward to working with him closely,” Duminy said.
Karthik’s signing adds depth and firepower to the Sharjah Warriorz lineup — and fans will be eager to see if the seasoned finisher can light up the ILT20 stage just as he has done around the world.
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