Having played a big role in India’s series with an 82-run win against South Africa, Karthik attributed his 27-ball 55 to a sense of security and clarity in thought process.
He said of the innings, “Just feeling good. I feel very safe in this set-up. In the last game, things didn’t go according to plan, but I went and expressed myself today,” Kartik said. Said at the presentation ceremony after the match.
He gave a lot of credit to coach Rahul Dravid.
“Credit to Rahul Dravid; there’s a certain sense of calm. The dressing room is a quiet place right now. It’s important to learn to accept the pressure. It feels safe and uncluttered. That clarity and the ambience of that helped.”
After playing India’s first T20 match in 2006, incidentally against the Proteas and also the ‘Player of the Match’ award at that time, Karthik is now more candid about his role in the team.
“I think DK is thinking a little better. He is able to assess situations better and that comes with practice.” They said.
Karthik is happy that the series has spoiled.
“It’s good to see a bilateral series going to the last match. Seeing the pressure absorb in the third and fourth games was something we would love to see.”
Karthik’s junior and team captain Rishabh Pant After being reduced to 56 for 3 in 10 overs, the game-changing stance of both Hardik Pandya and Karthik were all praises.
“We talked about execution and playing better cricket and here are the results. Really happy with the way Hardik put up a show. DK went to the kill immediately and that gave us positivity.”
He admitted that he needed to improve his batting.
“As a person, I can improve in some areas. Not too worried though. Looking to take the positivity and improve. Let’s see what happens in Bangalore. Look forward to giving my 100%.”
South Africa’s stand-in captain Keshav Maharaj blamed the lack of adaptability on his part.
“Obviously, the last few overs (while bowling) didn’t go as planned but we felt the pitch got a little better in the end. It’s a lack of adaptability on our side. We need to be a little more active. ”