RCB Director Of Cricket Operations Mike Hesson Explains How Dinesh Karthik Is A Different Finisher From AB de Villiers

Royal Challengers Bangalore Director of Cricket operations Mike Hesson talked about Dinesh Karthik replacing AB de Villiers in IPL 2022.

AB de Villiers was the name that rhymed with the RCB chants for almost a decade at the M.Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.

The ABD-touch for RCB

The South African batting great was a treat to watch for the flair he would display into his batting. There is no description required on why he is called Mr 360°.

Over the years, de Villiers carried the RCB batting unit as a leader and he was the reason to witness many thrilling games in IPL involving RCB in close finishes.

In November 2021, De Villiers ended his 11-year stint with the three-time IPL finalists when he announced retirement from all forms of the game.

RCB found a new leader in Faf du Plessis and a finisher in the face of Dinesh Karthik. The wicketkeeper-batter slammed 330 runs in 16 innings at 55 and a strike rate of 183.33 in IPL 2022.

Mike Hesson points out the difference between AB de Villiers and Dinesh Karthik

Hesson explained the difference between two of the greatest finishers of the game.

“We had AB de Villiers who was outstanding in the role but there are very few players who are like ABD. For us to have an Indian player fulfil that role, we felt we needed somebody who would do it differently,” Hesson told TimesofIndia.

“DK is a different type of power player and not many thought of him as a power player. But we watched him closely from overs 15-20 and he did well in those overs. He hadn’t done particularly well when he was given other roles (before RCB) and we felt he had plenty to offer,” he added.

RCB qualified for the IPL 2022 playoffs but lost to Rajasthan Royals in the Qualifier 2 clash. Their hunt for the elusive IPL title will continue along the line.

Also Read: Dinesh Karthik Was Highly Motivated To Come And Do Well: Mike Hesson