KARTHIK HISTORY Dinesh Karthik on Saturday will become the first-ever Indian cricketer to play in the SA20 when he steps out for the Paarl Royals against the Sunrisers Eastern Cape. Picture: AFP
Image: AFP
As the Paarl Royals take on the Sunrisers Eastern Cape in Paarl on Saturday, Dinesh Karthik will make a unique piece of history in the SA20.
The wicketkeeper-batsman Dinesh Karthik will become the first-ever Indian cricketer to play in the SA20 when he takes the field for the Paarl Royals. First ball is scheduled for 1pm.
This is quite incredible in itself considering the SA20 in its third edition is in part funded by the Indian Premier League (IPL).
Karthik was proud to achieve his bit of history for India.
“I am very proud to be the first Indian cricketer to play in the league. I’ve always wanted to play in a league outside India, and I believe I’ve chosen the best one. The quality of cricket and the support from the crowds here are amazing," Karthik told SportsBoom.com.
"To be in a setup like the Royals has been fantastic, and I’m really happy to be part of the Pink Army.”
The IPL runs from late march to late May generally, while the SA20 runs from early January for a month and features 34 games. In comparison, the IPL has approximately 74 matches. The SA20 has six teams while the IPL has 10.
Karthik hopes there will be many more of his countryman soon plying their trade in the Rainbow Nation.
"Why not? Anyone who has finished playing in the IPL can look at the SA20. It’s the strongest competition with top players, and the support from fans is incredible. Playing in front of passionate crowds brings out the best in you.
"The SA20 is recognised highly in India. With matches broadcast on top channels, the competition is gaining awareness. I see no reason why it can’t grow stronger with each season."
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