Dinesh Karthik makes U-turn after announcing retirement, to play in South African T20 league

Two months after announcing his retirement from all forms of cricket, former India wicketkeeper-batsman Dinesh Karthik has made a U-turn. The veteran cricketer will participate in the next edition of the SA20.

As per reports, Karthik has signed a contract with Paarl Royals. In the process, he becomes the first Indian cricketer to participate in the South African T20 league.

“Batter. Keeper. Finisher. Welcome to the #RoyalsFamily, Dinesh Karthik,” Paarl Royals wrote on social media account X (earlier known as Twitter) following the development.

“Entering the ground again as a player. This time in Africa,” tweeted Karthik.

The development came just a day after Karthik was confirmed as the Brand Ambassador for the SA20 for the third edition, joining South Africa legend AB de Villiers.

“I have so many fond memories of playing in and visiting South Africa, and when this opportunity came about, I couldn’t say no because of how special it would be to come back to playing competitive cricket and win this incredible competition with the Royals,” said Karthik.

“I am delighted to be joining the Paarl Royals team which oozes a lot of experience, quality and potential. I am certainly looking forward to joining the group and contributing to what should be an exciting season,” he added.