Dinesh Karthik has been appointed the batting coach and batting mentor of the men's team by the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB).
Karthik, 39, played for RCB until IPL 2024 before bringing the curtain down on all forms of cricket at the end of the season.
The wicketkeeper-batter was roped in by the RCB franchise at the IPL 2022 mega auction and continued with them for three seasons. He also represented them in 2015 for a solitary season.
Karthik impressed in his last IPL season with 326 runs in 13 innings in the 2024 season at a strike rate of 187.35. Overall, Karthik featured in 60 matches for RCB in the tournament and notched up 937 runs at an average of 24.65 and a strike rate of 162.95. He also took 36 catches, along with nine stumpings, during his RCB career.
"Coaching at a professional level is incredibly exciting for me and is something I'm truly passionate about as a new chapter in my life. Hopefully, the breadth of my experiences as a player can contribute to the development of the group and added value," Karthik was quoted via a press release.
"I believe that cricket success hinges not only on technical proficiency but also on match intelligence and composure. I am eager to coach and mentor our batting group, helping them to not only refine their method but also to develop the keen match awareness needed to excel under pressure. It's also great that I can continue my association with RCB as the franchise continues to move from strength to strength."
RCB Director of cricket Mo Bobat is also looking forward to working alongside Karthik.
"DK is an excellent addition to our coaching group," Bobat said. "He was thrilling to watch on the field, and I'm sure he will be just as impactful as a coach. His longevity and track record as a player speaks volumes about his skill and dedication. I know he will bring that same quality and commitment to this new professional chapter."