RR vs RCB Eliminator IPL 2024: Guard of honour for Dinesh Karthik, the 'ultimate finisher' for RCB retires

Dinesh Karthik in IPL 2024

Dinesh Karthik, the clutch closer for Royal Challengers Bengaluru, might have just taken his final swing in the Indian Premier League (IPL). RCB's flight came crashing down after a magnificent streak of six wins, their dream season turning into a nightmare as they bowed out in the Eliminator.

In a showdown dubbed the "Royals' Rumble," Rajasthan Royals clinched a thrilling victory over Bengaluru by four wickets at the Narendra Modi Stadium. The stadium, pulsating with cricket fervor, witnessed the demise of chants like "ee sala cup namde," failing to echo all the way to Chennai, the venue for the title clash.

Amidst the intense cricket drama, emotions overflowed as veteran Karthik, removing his gloves, expressed gratitude to the fans for their unwavering support throughout the season. A poignant moment unfolded as cricket icon Virat Kohli embraced Karthik, both men holding back tears.

Though Karthik hasn't officially announced retirement from IPL, hints dropped during the season suggest this might be his farewell tour with the team. RCB players formed a guard of honor as Karthik bid adieu to the field, a heartwarming scene captured and shared by the IPL's official social media handle.

From #RCB to Dinesh Karthik ️ #TATAIPL | #RRvRCB | #TheFinalCall | #Eliminator | @RCBTweets | @DineshKarthik pic.twitter.com/p2XI7A1Ta6

— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) May 22, 2024

Karthik's presence was pivotal for RCB, especially in tight situations during the death overs, propelling the team to an unexpected playoff berth. If this marks Karthik's swan song, he leaves behind a legacy of 4,842 runs in 257 matches, with an astonishing 22 fifty-plus scores.

The journeyman cricketer graced six IPL franchises in his illustrious 17-year career, starting with the Delhi Daredevils in the inaugural 2008 season. From Punjab to Mumbai, Gujarat to Kolkata, and finally landing in Bengaluru, Karthik's career was a testament to his adaptability and skill.

Finishing the current season with 326 runs in 15 games, boasting a strike rate of 187.36 and an average of 36.22, Karthik's contribution to RCB's campaign was undeniable, leaving a lasting imprint on the team's history.