Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) has appointed Dinesh Karthik as the batting coach and mentor for their men’s team ahead of IPL 2025. The 39-year-old Dinesh Karthik was a member of the RCB roster until the conclusion of IPL 2024, after which he announced his retirement from all forms of competitive cricket.
The RCB franchise selected the wicketkeeper-batter during the IPL 2022 mega auction, and he remained with the team for three seasons. Additionally, he had a brief tenure with them in 2015, participating for just one season.
Dinesh Karthik concluded his IPL career on a positive note, amassing 326 runs across 13 innings during the 2024 season, achieving a strike rate of 187.35. In total, Karthik participated in 60 matches for RCB throughout the tournament, accumulating 937 runs with an average of 24.65 and a strike rate of 162.95. His total runs scored presently ranks as the second-highest for an Indian player representing RCB in the IPL, trailing only Virat Kohli. Additionally, Karthik has recorded 36 catches and executed nine stumpings throughout his tenure with RCB.
Dinesh Karthik On His New Role As A Batting Coach And Mentor For RCB
As far as his coaching experience is considered, Dinesh Karthik recently became a member of the England Lions coaching staff during their tour of India in January of this year. He contributed to the England Lions’ preparations by being a part of the coaching team for the initial leg of the tour. At RCB, Dinesh Karthik will now collaborate with head coach Andy Flower, bowling coach Adam Griffith, and director of cricket Mo Bobat.
“Coaching at a professional level is incredibly exciting for me and is something I’m truly passionate about as a new chapter in my life. Hopefully, the breadth of my experiences as a player can contribute to the development of the group and added value,” Karthik was quoted via a press release.
“I believe that cricket success hinges not only on technical proficiency but also on match intelligence and composure. I am eager to coach and mentor our batting group, helping them to not only refine their method but also to develop the keen match awareness needed to excel under pressure. It’s also great that I can continue my association with RCB as the franchise continues to move from strength to strength.”
“DK is an excellent addition to our coaching group, he was thrilling to watch on the field, and I’m sure he will be just as impactful as a coach. His longevity and track record as a player speaks volumes about his skill and dedication. I know he will bring that same quality and commitment to this new professional chapter.” Mo Boba quoted.
Dinesh Karthik is among the seven players who have participated in every edition of the IPL since its inception in 2008. Throughout his career, he has played for six different IPL teams, beginning with the Delhi Daredevils, and subsequently joining Kings XI Punjab, Mumbai Indians, Gujarat Lions, Kolkata Knight Riders, and Royal Challengers Bangalore.
In total, he participated in 257 matches during the tournament, accumulating 4,842 runs with an average of 26.31 and a strike rate of 135.36, including 22 half-centuries. As a wicketkeeper, Dinesh Karthik ranks second in overall dismissals with 174 dismissals to his name, trailing only MS Dhoni, who holds the record with 190 dismissals.
