'Karthik couldn't prove himself even once in 8 games': Irfan Pathan
Pathan launched a scathing attack on Dinesh Karthik, point out his performance in all the eight games before calling for his removal.
Crickate
In IPL 2023, the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) have exhibited both hot and cool play. This season, they are sixth in the standings with four wins and four losses in eight games. Former India cricketer Irfan Pathan noted that RCB's middle order was solely responsible for their four losses. While Virat Kohli, Faf du Plessis, and Glenn Maxwell have been in exceptional form this season, the middle order has struggled in nearly every game. Pathan then launched a vitriolic attack on Dinesh Karthik, citing his performance in all eight games before requesting his dismissal.
In eight IPL 2023 matches, the RCB middle order (No. 4 to No. 7) has scored only 404 runs, the fewest of the 10 franchises. They have a combined batting average of only 20.20, second-worst only to Delhi Capitals (16.6), and almost every sixth delivery results in a boundary, the lowest rate.
Last year, Kartik's finishing prowess astounded veterans, cricket experts, and India's selection committee. His talent allowed him to return to the Indian team after falling out of contention for a position in any format. Later, he was also included in the T20 World Cup squad. However, in 2023, Karthik has labored tremendously. Of these 404 runs, Karthik has scored 83 runs in seven innings. His 13.83 average ranks second-worst among middle-order hitters who have faced at least 50 projectiles this season.
Irfan launched a scathing attack on Karthik in an interview with Star Sports, urging RCB to make a decision on his position in the XI as the team prepares to face Lucknow Super Giants at the Ekana Stadium.
"RCB will need to devise a plan if KGF (Kohli, Glenn, Faf) are unable to navigate the team through troubled waters. Egal ob Dinesh Karthik oder Mahipal Lomror," said Pathan. "RCB's middle order appears very weak. In none of the last eight matches, Karthik has demonstrated that the team can rely on him for huge scores or during chases. The RCB management must rectify this flaw in their batting."
