ICC World Cup 2019: Virat Kohli Reveals the Reason Behind the Inclusion of Dinesh Karthik

The Indian National Cricket team selectors have preferred Dinesh Karthik over younger wicket-keeper Rishabh Pant as the second choice keeper for the upcoming ICC World Cup 2019. England and Wales will host the marquee event starting from May 30. India skipper Virat Kohli recently revealed the reasons behind Karthik’s inclusion in the 15-member squad.

Meanwhile, there has been a wide-ranging debate over the exclusion of Rishabh Pant. Former India legend Sunil Gavaskar was the most vocal about the omission of the exclusion of the young wicket-keeper. But the selectors headed by MSK Prasad have backed the experience of Dinesh Karthik to replace first-choice wicket-keeper MS Dhoni in need.

Also Read: Didn’t Give Any Inappropriate Statement About Anyone: Kuldeep Yadav On MS Dhoni

Karthik has the required experience: Kohli

Virat Kohli also echoed the same lines saying that Karthik has shown composure in tough situations. The talismanic run-scorer also added that the Tamil Nadu will be a perfect replacement to Dhoni behind the wicket. Besides, Karthik is also good in the death overs, and Kohli said everybody was on board with the decision. The participating teams can still change the players until May 23.

“In pressure situations, he’s shown composure,” Kohli told the Times of India newspaper about Karthik. “It was something that everybody on board was convinced about. He has the experience.

If god forbid, something happens to MS (Dhoni), Karthik can be immensely valuable behind the wickets. As a finisher, he’s done well. So, it was the overall exposure to a tournament of this magnitude that was taken into primary consideration,” he added.

Dinesh Karthik made his one-day international debut in 2004 and has played 91 matches for India in the format, compared with left-handed batsman Pant who has played just five after making his 50-over debut last October. Also, Dinesh Karthik can bat anywhere in the order which will make the batting order flexible.

India will begin their World Cup preparation on June 5 against South Africa at the Rose Bowl Cricket Ground in Southampton.