IND vs PAK: "Dinesh Karthik Is Going To Play A Big Role For India At The T20 World Cup." - Shane Watson Picks Veteran Wicket-keeper Over Rishabh Pant For Finisher's Role

When it comes to the finisher’s position in the T20 World Cup 2022, Dinesh Karthik, a veteran wicketkeeper-batter for Team India, might surpass Rishabh Pant, according to Shane Watson. 

The Australian emphasised how the right-handed hitter has recently displayed remarkable form, winning games for his team with timely hits. Given his propensity to strike boundaries right away, Karthik is a significant addition to India’s team, according to Watson.

Dinesh Karthik Best Indian Batter For Finisher’s Role: Shane Watson

These comments were expressed by Watson in an interview with the TOI. He clarified: 

“It’s a good predicament that India have got. DK is batting brilliantly. He is just incredible. He just continues to come in and just take games away from world-class bowling (teams) straightaway. 

“So, if that’s the role needed within the Indian team, then Dinesh Karthik is certainly the man for that. If they just want someone to come in right at the end and hit boundaries straightaway, then DK is the best for this role.” 

Regarding Rishabh Pant’s hitting, Watson said that while the southpaw is also capable of raising the stakes, he prefers to think of him as a middle-order hitter rather than a specific finisher. He added: 

“Whereas, Rishabh can certainly do that too. But in my mind, he is more of a middle-order batsman right now. Both Rishabh and Dinesh Karthik are very sharp. It just depends on what roles they need to fill in. Karthik is going to play a big role for India at the T20 World Cup.” 

Dinesh Karthik has received India’s support over Pant in previous T20I matches. For the team’s exhibition game against the hosts, Australia, Karthik was chosen instead of the left-hander. Additionally, throughout the game, Pant was seen heavily tapping his right knee. 

Virat Kohli Is At His Absolute Best: Shane Watson

In preparation for the Asia Cup 2022, Watson recognised that Virat Kohli has demonstrated outstanding form since returning from a little sabbatical. He asserted that the athlete needed to take a break in order to re-energize himself. 

The 41-year-old stressed that Kohli appears to have rediscovered his rhythm and has displayed excellent bat control. He expected that Rohit Sharma and company will heavily rely on the seasoned campaigner in the major competition. 

Watson added: 

“Virat is batting very nicely right now. The way he played against Australia alone, a couple of those innings, the way he batted, he was at his best. Some of those shots that he played were amazing. Virat is batting at his absolute best.  

“He definitely needed a break just to be able to re-energize his batteries. And you can see the way he has made a comeback into the Indian team. The way he’s batting, he’s going to play a key role for India in the T20 World Cup.” 

The T20 World Cup 2022 will begin with India against their bitter rivals Pakistan. On Sunday, the Melbourne Cricket Ground will host the grudge match (October 23). 

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