Paarl Royals sign veteran India gloveman Dinesh Karthik ahead of SA20 campaign

The wicketkeeper-batter has represented India in 180 international matches across formats and registered 172 dismissals to his name through his sharp and reliable glovework behind the stumps.

In the T20 format for various teams, including in the Indian Premier League (IPL), Karthik has scored 7407 runs in 401 matches at a strike rate of 136.96.

He said: "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.

"Even though I didn't have the chance to represent the Royals in the IPL, to me it was always a franchise setup and environment that was very attractive as a player.

"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."

Karthik has been signed to replace England white-ball captain Jos Buttler, who is not available for the new SA20 season due to international commitments.

Royals' director of cricket, Kumar Sangakkara, welcomed the 39-year-old Karthik to the Paarl-based franchise.

"Dinesh has served as one of the modern day greats for India in white ball cricket, and his wealth of experience will contribute to the making of our side for Season 3," Sangakkara said.

"He has always proved to be a great asset for the teams he's represented across leagues for the way he approaches the game and the impact he can make, so it's an exciting signing for us and we look forward to having him with the group at Paarl."

The third season of the SA20 will commence on 9th January until 8th February 2025 with Sunrisers Eastern Cape having won the first two editions of the tournament.

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