Dinesh Karthik Expresses Outrage as Tamil Nadu Coach Blames Captain

Rarely does one witness a cricket team’s coach openly criticizing its captain, but such an uncommon occurrence unfolded during the Ranji Trophy semi-final match between Tamil Nadu and Mumbai. Sulakshan Kulkarni, Tamil Nadu’s coach, strongly objected to his captain R Sai Kishore’s choice to bat first. Kulkarni’s remarks sparked a significant controversy on social media, with fans condemning the coach’s actions. Even seasoned Indian cricketer Dinesh Karthik expressed his disapproval on social media, conveying his disappointment regarding Kulkarni’s statements.

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Kulkarni did not hesitate to blame his captain, Sai Kishore, suggesting that it was Kishore’s decision to bat first that ultimately led to the team’s defeat in the semi-final.

I always speak honestly—our loss in the match was evident by 9 o’clock on day one,” Kulkarni stated after Tamil Nadu’s loss to Mumbai in the semi-final by an innings and 70 runs. The moment I saw the pitch, I knew exactly what we were up against. Everything was clear; we won the toss, and as a coach and a Mumbaikar, I am well aware of the conditions. We should have opted to bowl first, but the captain had a different instinct.

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