Xtra Time Web Desk: What will be the role of Dinesh Karthik in the Indian T20 squad leading up to the T20 World Cup? Will DK be preferred over Hardik Pandya as a finisher in the shorter format? Team India Head Coach Rahul Dravid preferred to remain flexible with his options as far as finisher is concerned. Both Hardik and Karthik have played the role as finisher for their respective franchise in the recently concluded IPL 2022.
Talking about Hardik, Rahul Dravid said his role might differ in Indian team as compared to Gujarat Titans.
“It won’t be wise to give out the batting order before the game starts but sometimes, and it is not relevant to Hardik only, you play similar roles that you play for your franchise and India. But sometimes the roles may be different, depending on the requirement of the team. We may require different things from different players based on our combinations and roles,” said Dravid during his press conference on Tuesday.
The Head Coach of Indian team did admit that the return of a fit Hardik Pandya will open up more options for the team.
“We have seen that in past with the Indian team in white ball cricket and he has shown some great form in the IPL. It is very pleasing to have someone like him back, to have the option to pick and choose,” said Dravid.
Experienced Dinesh Karthik too is making a comeback after a splendid season for Royal Challengers Bangalore in IPL 2022. According to Dravid, DK has showed great consistency for the last 2-3 years and can make a difference.
“Dinesh has made a comeback based on the skills that he has shown in a particular phase of the game. At that backend, Dinesh has really been able to show great consistency for the last 2-3 years. He has been able to make a difference in whichever team he has played, that’s why he has been picked. He’s been picked to bat in that kind of position and see if he can replicate the same performances for India as well,” said Dravid.