RCB Appoints Dinesh Karthik As Batting Coach And Mentor For IPL 2025

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) announced on Monday, July 1, that former wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik has been appointed as their new Batting Coach and Mentor for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season.

Karthik, who played for RCB in 2015 and 2016, scored 326 runs in the 2024 season at a strike rate of 187.36. His influence extended beyond his runs, contributing significantly to the team's dynamics. His extensive experience will be invaluable to RCB's coaching staff.

The former Indian wicketkeeper-batter brings local knowledge from the domestic circuit, which is expected to benefit RCB's talent pool. His focus on nurturing young talent is anticipated to lead the team towards a successful campaign.

Mo Bobat, Director of Cricket at RCB, expressed his enthusiasm about Karthik joining the coaching group. He said, "DK is an excellent addition to our coaching group. He was thrilling to watch on the field, and I'm sure he will be just as impactful as a coach."

Bobat highlighted Karthik's longevity and track record as a player, noting how these qualities would translate into his new role. "His longevity and track record as a player speaks volumes about his skill and dedication. I know he will bring that same quality and commitment to this new professional chapter," he added.

Karthik's Vision for RCB

On his appointment, Dinesh Karthik shared his excitement about coaching at a professional level. He stated, "Coaching at a professional level is incredibly exciting for me and is something I'm truly passionate about as a new chapter in my life."

Karthik emphasised the importance of match intelligence and composure alongside technical proficiency. "Hopefully, the breadth of my experiences as a player can contribute to the development of the group and bring added value," he said.

Benefits of Karthik's Expertise

Bobat also pointed out how RCB can benefit from Karthik's experience across both international cricket and IPL. "DK's experiences across both international cricket and the IPL make him a huge asset to RCB. I have no doubt that our players will benefit hugely from his expert support," Bobat further added.

Karthik aims to help players refine their methods and develop keen match awareness needed under pressure. "I am eager to coach and mentor our batting group, helping them to not only refine their method but also to develop the keen match awareness needed to excel under pressure," he mentioned.

Karthik's Legacy with RCB

Karthik made his ODI debut for India at 19 in 2004 and has over two decades of batting experience. He played 26 Tests, 94 One-Day Internationals, and 60 T20 Internationals for India. In IPL, he featured in 257 games scoring an aggregate of 4842 runs including 22 fifties.

His batting style and presence on the field made him an instant favourite with RCB fans. His ability to shape team fortunes with his calm approach made him ideal for nurturing young Indian batters alongside coach Andy Flower.

"As a player, DK demonstrated an elite mindset under pressure and a real drive to keep evolving his game," Bobat said. "I'm looking forward to him instilling those same qualities into our players."

Karthik concluded by expressing his joy at continuing with RCB: "It's also great that I can continue my association with RCB as the franchise continues to move from strength to strength."