IPL 2024: Dinesh Karthik Unveils Dark Reality, ‘RCB Fans Show Love Publicly, But Curse Me Privately’

In a candid conversation with Ravichandran Ashwin on the latter’s YouTube channel, Dinesh Karthik, who has represented six IPL franchises throughout his career, praised the unmatched fanbase of Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) as ‘incredible’. However, he also shed light on the darker side of this fervent support. Karthik acknowledged the undying loyalty of RCB fans, describing them as a family who passionately back their players, regardless of performance. He emphasized that these fans never give up on their team and are quick to defend their players against criticism from outsiders.

Yet, Karthik revealed the flip side of this loyalty. When players underperform, RCB fans are not hesitant to turn hostile, resorting to verbal abuse, both publicly and privately. Karthik recounted receiving abusive messages in his DMs, not just directed at him but also targeting his family members, whenever he failed to meet expectations while playing for RCB. Having played for various IPL teams over the years, Karthik highlighted the extraordinary fan base of RCB, despite the team’s lack of IPL titles. He emphasized the enduring support and passion exhibited by RCB fans, which he described as “unreal” compared to other franchises.

Throughout his IPL journey with teams like Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals), Mumbai Indians, Kolkata Knight Riders, Kings XI Punjab, and Gujarat Lions (now defunct), Karthik has experienced the highs and lows of fan support, but he acknowledges RCB’s fan base as exceptional.