'I am a shy guy'

He enjoys the boys’ nightouts, watches Rajanikanth movies, and is loving every bit being a part of the Delhi Daredevils team. But wicket keeper-cum-batsman Dinesh Karthik’s best moment in the third season of the IPL was in the City, where he walked the ramp for a denim brand.

Speaking to Metrolife, he says, “I have never walked the ramp before and on my way to the hotel I was only thinking of it. But now that it’s over, I don’t think I will ever forget this moment. It was fun to walk the ramp and I hope to do it again,” he says. During the show, he seemed to be a favourite of the women. Female fans hooted for him and a particular model tried to get cosy with him. When asked about it, he immediately responds, “No way, I am a very shy and reserved guy. I take time to open up and talk to women.”

For this cricketer, life outside cricket has always been fun. His stint in reality dance show Ek Khiladi Ek Hasina, where he partnered with Nigaar Khan, was also a memorable one. “That was a different kind of experience. Dancing is something I enjoy but it requires a lot of energy and dedication to become a professional. It was tough picking up some of the steps but Nigaar was a good partner and I learnt a lot from her,” he adds.

Dinesh also feels that blending entertainment with cricket is a good thing. “The IPL is all about entertaining the crowd. Entertainment brings good relief for everyone. As long the main focus is game, the rest is ok,” he adds.  Is there anything apart from cricket he enjoys the most? “I enjoy watching movies in my free time and my another  stress buster is hanging out with my dog,” he says.

Bonding with the team is also equally important for this player. “I feel it is crucial for a team to have a good off-field rapport as it easily transforms into the game as well,” says Dinesh. On his aspirations for the Delhi Daredevils, Dinesh says, “We have lost quite a few games, but it’s still not too late. I hope we can pick up fast and hopefully reach the semi-finals this season.”