'The fire is still burning very brightly' - Dinesh Karthik hopeful of making comeback for India in T20Is

Wicketkeeper batter Dinesh Karthik has said that he genuinely harbors the ambition of playing for India. Karthik last played for India in the semi-final of the ODI World Cup in 2019 against New Zealand. He has played 26 Tests, 94 ODIs and 32 T20Is since making his debut in 2004.

The wicketkeeper was part of the T20 World Cup 2007 and Champions Trophy 2013 winning teams. He was also the hero of the Nidahas Trophy final where India beat Bangladesh in a last-ball thriller by the help of Karthik's brilliant cameo. The 36-year-old has played for Delhi Capitals, Punjab Kings, Mumbai Indians, Gujarat Lions and Kolkata Knight Riders in the IPL over the years.

Meanwhile, the right-hander has said that he wants to do every possible thing to play for the country again. "I genuinely harbour the ambition of playing for the country again and I want to do everything possible, that is my ultimate goal. I train and practice, everything I do right now is working towards that goal. The next three years for me is about playing the sport and doing everything I can. I enjoy playing the sport," Karthik was quoted by India Today.

I want to pursue commentary after hanging my boots: Dinesh Karthik

The Tamil Nadu player added that he wants to pursue commentary seriously after hanging my boots but suggested that the he won't do it soon

"Obviously, I have enjoyed the commentary stint, but this is something I want to pursue in a serious fashion when I hang up my boots which I am planning to not do very soon. I think for me, playing the sport is of utmost importance and I want to do that for a bare minimum of three years," he said