I can get the best out of the team: Karthik

KKR think tank chose not to retain two-time IPL winning skipper Gambhir and handed the reins of the team to the Tamil Nadu batsman, bought for Rs 7.4 crore. “What Gautam Gambhir has achieved for KKR is phenomenal. He’s left a benchmark,” Karthik said after joining his new team and on the sidelines of their jersey launch. 

Under Gambhir, KKR twice emerged champions (2012, 2014) and also made the Play-offs thrice (2011, 2016 and 2017). 

Karthik has wealth of experience having played for as many as five different IPL franchisees -- Royal Challengers Bangalore, Mumbai Indians, Kings XI Punjab, Delhi Daredevils and Gujarat Lions in last season.

“Being a leader of the team, the management will expect from me the same. I’m aware of the expectations. Yes, there would be pressure. As a captain, you’re expected to at least go to the playoffs, that’s the least anybody can expect. I think I’m at a stage where I can handle it and get the best out of the team,” he asserted. 

Karthik hinted that he might promote himself in the batting order when they open their IPL11 campaign against Royal Challengers Bangalore at home. 

“Obviously I will bat at a different position than what I did in the Indian game. IPL is about dealing with tricky situations, handling pressure. There is just a week to go and I don’t think I will treat myself any differently. Everybody is here to do their best and I’m no different. Everybody has a role to play,” he said.