The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) are now only one win away from claiming their first Indian Premier League (IPL) title. Having put in an exceptional performance against Gujarat Titans in Qualifier 1, the side has stormed into the final with confidence and momentum, kindling hopes among their huge and committed fanbase.
But while Bengaluru fans are going all out to dream big, a couple of ex-England cricketers, Nasser Hussain and Michael Atherton, have lightheartedly voiced about what could come next if RCB coach Dinesh Karthik assists in bringing the much-awaited title. They feel that Karthik might turn “unbearable” if he guides RCB towards their maiden championship in 17 years.
Karthik, who has been famous for his eloquent analysis in the commentary booth, moved into a mentorship position with RCB for the season of IPL 2025. Today, for the first time as a member of an IPL support staff, he is on the threshold of doing something nobody else has done with the franchise leading them to the trophy.
Apart from his off-field responsibilities, Karthik has also played a leadership role, always visible with tactical advice from the sidelines. His impact has not only been experienced in the dressing room but also outside the boundary rope, where he often conveys strategies and instructions during matches.
If RCB wins the final, it will not only be a historic moment for the team but also for Karthik’s first season as a mentor, possibly rewriting his legacy in the IPL.
“RCB have got through to the finals. If they win that, DK is going to be unbearable. One season as coach/mentor and he’s won it,” Hussain jokingly said during a Sky Sports Podcast.
“He’s unbearable at the best of times, he’s going to be doubly unbearable. He’ll be like John Terry, at the front of the RCB trophy presentation holding it there with Virat Kohli,” Michael Atherton added.
