Veteran wicketkeeper-batsman Dinesh Karthik recently discussed the positive developments in Indian cricket in the year 2023. Karthik noted that despite facing some disheartening losses at significant ICC events, there were also commendable performances to highlight.
Dinesh Karthik Reflects on Team India’s Performance In 2023

In a conversation with Cricbuzz, Dinesh Karthik highlighted the resurgence of senior batsman Virat Kohli and the commanding performance of captain Rohit Sharma at the 2023 World Cup. He said:
“There have been many, many good things that have happened. Jasprit Bumrah’s return to cricket is a very, very important moment for us. The way Virat Kohli has just come back in all formats, the man has got the skill, hunger, and determination.”
He added: “Rohit Sharma’s incredible batting during the World Cup, just standing up and wanting to be counted as a leader. KL Rahul’s comeback to international has been a great success story as well, not only as a batter but as a keeper as well.”
Sharing his perspective on Team India’s overall performances, the cricketer-commentator expressed the opinion that the team showcased some of their finest cricket this year, further stating:
“2023 has been a year which has seen some of the best cricket Team India have played and some really heartbreaking days as well. Most of the bilaterals, I think we have aced, as always.”
He added: “The 50-over World Cup that happened in India was a very special one. India played some brilliant cricket, barring the finals. As people would say, didn’t just go our way and Australia played way better on that day.”
In the final Test of the year, India experienced a comprehensive defeat against South Africa in the Boxing Day Test in Centurion. Led by Rohit Sharma, the team suffered a series opener loss by an innings and 32 runs.
During 2023, India made it to the finals of two ICC tournaments—the World Test Championship (WTC) and the 50-over World Cup. Despite their commendable efforts, they faced defeat in both significant matches against Australia.
Speaking of India’s WTC final defeat, Karthik said:
“If we look at how things have panned out, we have had a pretty disappointing year in terms of the World Test Championship final not going exactly how we planned it out. The Asia Cup was a very good tournament for us yet again; we completely dominated that.”
Karthik also appeared optimistic about India bouncing back in the second and final Test against South Africa, mentioning:
He added: “As I look at it, I think the Indian team is in a very, very strong territory. Yes, we have had a tough Test match, but things will definitely change. I am very confident this Indian team will put up a way better performance and push South Africa the next time around.”
The Indian team is set to fly from Johannesburg to Cape Town for the second and final Test on Sunday morning. While the lineup for the Test at Newlands Stadium on January 3 hasn’t been indicated, it is unlikely that there will be a change in the wicketkeeper position. Despite facing challenges behind the stumps in the Centurion Test, KL Rahul is expected to continue as the wicketkeeper.
Also Read: “Why Team India Avoids First-Class Practice Matches?” Rohit Sharma Explained