In the thrilling face-off between Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Mumbai Indians(MI), two standout performers emerged, captivating fans and selectors alike. Jasprit Bumrah showcased his bowling prowess, while Dinesh Karthik stole the spotlight with an explosive batting display.
Karthik's stellar performance saw him achieving a remarkable fifty in just 21 balls. Facing a daunting challenge towards the end, he unleashed a barrage of boundaries, particularly dismantling Akash Madhwal's bowling with four consecutive boundaries to the third man.
With the T20 World Cup looming in June, the 38-year-old Karthik's performance has thrust him into the selectors' radar. His brilliant innings, punctuated by back-to-back sixes and a sublime cover drive for four in the final over, not only added impetus to RCB's innings but also caught the attention of his peers.
Rohit Sharma, who is very good friends, didn't hesitate to engaging in a friendly banter with Karthik, saying, "Shabas DK, World Cup Khelna Hain Abhi (Fantastic, DK. You have to play the World Cup)."?
The incident happened when the keeper-batter used the reverse scoop shot to hit Akash Madhwal for boundaries in the penultimate over.?
Sharma's words, captured in a viral video on social media, further underscored Karthik's credentials for the upcoming tournament.
Karthik's contribution proved instrumental in augmenting RCB's total to 196/8 in 20 overs, following significant scores from Faf du Plessis and Patidar earlier in the innings. As the cricketing world anticipates the T20 World Cup, Karthik's splendid form has undoubtedly elevated his standing in the eyes of selectors and fans alike.
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