Former India cricketer Dinesh Karthik turned back the clock with a scintillating half-century for Paarl Royals in their SA20 clash against Joburg Super Kings on January 30. The veteran wicketkeeper-batter, who had announced his retirement from international cricket in June 2024, showcased his trademark finishing skills with a crucial 53 off 39 balls—his maiden SA20 fifty.

Walking in at No. 6 with Paarl Royals struggling at 40 for 4 in just the sixth over, Karthik had the responsibility of steadying the innings after the early collapse. With key batters in captain David Miller and Joe Root not available, the onus was on Karthik to anchor the innings. Displaying his composure and power-hitting ability, the 39-year-old unleashed a counterattack, including a spectacular assault on Wihan Lubbe in the 13th over, where he smashed three consecutive sixes. His innings bore shades of his IPL 2024 exploits for Royal Challengers Bengaluru, where he played a similar role as a designated finisher.

Despite Karthik’s heroics, the lack of support from the rest of the batting lineup meant that Paarl Royals could only manage 150/9 in their 20 overs. Joburg Super Kings, however, made light work of the chase, thanks to a stunning knock from Karthik’s former RCB teammate, Faf du Plessis. The veteran South African opener hammered 87 off 55 balls to guide his team to a comfortable victory.

While the result did not go Paarl Royals’ way, Karthik’s vintage knock served as a reminder of his enduring class and ability to step up under pressure. His performance is sure to excite fans who have followed his career resurgence in T20 cricket over the years.