Sharjah Warriorz has strengthened its lineup for the forthcoming ILT20 season in the UAE by acquiring former India wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik. The franchise made the announcement of him occupying the spot of Kusal Mendis, who withdrew from the tournament one day prior to the first-ever player auction on October 1.
Karthik, who is 40 years of age, remains a desirable property in franchise cricket as he has retired from Indian and international cricket back in June of 2024. More recently, he has again been active in the global T20 circuit with Bangla Tigers in the 2024 Abu Dhabi T10, Southern Superstars in the Legends League, and Paarl Royals in the 2025 SA20. Warriorz’s signing of Karthik is a reflection of both consistency and ability to play in different leagues.
Karthik said in a statement expressing joy about joining the UAE-based franchise, “I am very excited to be joining the Sharjah Warriorz team for the DP World ILT20 tournament. I know they are a young team and aspiring to do some special things, and I am happy to be here. Sharjah, is also one of those iconic stadiums one always wants to play at, and to be a part of this franchise is a dream come true.”
This decision once again puts him alongside power-hitter Tim David. The two played together at Royal Challengers Bengaluru in IPL 2025, where Karthik was doing key work in the role of batting coach and mentor during RCB’s title-winning season.
Warriorz head coach JP Duminy welcomed the seasoned campaigner and labeled him an asset. “Dinesh Karthik is one of the most experienced hands and an incredibly innovative mind when it comes to T20 cricket. His explosive batting, dynamic personality, and wealth of experience will provide an immeasurable benefit to our younger players over the tournament,” Duminy said.
Karthik’s T20 record reflects his longevity. He has played in 412 matches for a record of 7,537 runs at an average of 27.01 with a strike rate of 136.66. He has played for six franchises in the IPL, including leading Kolkata Knight Riders, and remains one of the fittest players in the league, having only missed two matches in 17 seasons.
In the ILT20 auction, Karthik may also reunite with a few familiar faces on the field. His former India and Tamil Nadu teammate R Ashwin is in the bidding pool with the highest base price, and veteran legspinner Piyush Chawla is also listed.
With the Lanka Premier League taking place at the same time as the ILT20, Mendis and allrounder Dasun Shanaka have withdrawn from participating. However, for Sharjah Warriorz, Karthik brings some much-needed balance, experience, and leadership as they enter what should be an extremely competitive season in the UAE.
