Karthik had first played for RCB in 2015 and 2016. He had two different stints with the Bengaluru-based franchise, the most recent being 2022-2024. He scored a total of 326 runs in the 15 matches of the 2024 season at a strike rate of 187.36.

"Coaching at a professional level is incredibly exciting for me and is something I am really passionate about as a new chapter in my life. I hope that the breadth of my experiences as a player can contribute to the development of the group and bring added value," Karthik said about his appointment as batting coach and mentor of RCB.

"I believe that success in cricket depends not only on technical proficiency but also on intelligence and match composure. I look forward to coaching and mentoring our batting group, helping them not only hone their method but also develop keen match awareness needed to excel under pressure. It's also great to be able to continue my association with RCB as the franchise continues to go from strength to strength," he added.

The wicketkeeper-batsman, who had recently retired from all forms of the game after the conclusion of IPL 2024, featured in 257 IPL games, scoring a total of 4842 runs, including 22 fifties.

The 39-year-old, who made his ODI debut for India as a 19-year-old in 2004, has vast batting experience spanning over two decades during which he played 26 Tests, 94 One-Day Internationals and 60 T20 Internationals for India. .

Karthik was a member of the Indian team that won the inaugural T20 World Cup in 2007 and participated in all editions of the IPL until his retirement.

Speaking on Karthik's appointment, RCB Director of Cricket Mo Bobat said, "DK is a great addition to our coaching group. It was exciting to see him on the field and I am sure he will have the same impact as a coach. His longevity and career as a player say a lot about his ability and dedication. I know he will bring the same quality and commitment to this new professional chapter.

"DK's experiences in both international and IPL cricket make him a great asset for RCB. I have no doubt that our players will benefit greatly from his expert support. As a player, DK demonstrated an elite mentality under pressure and a real drive to continue to evolve his game. I hope he instils those same qualities and values ​​in our players and, in particular, our batsmen.

"We have exciting times ahead and it's great for us to be able to retain DK's involvement as someone who knows what it takes to play for RCB and our special fans," Bobat added.

Besdies RCB, Karthik played for Kolkata Knight Riders, Mumbai Indians, Delhi Daredevils and Punjab Kings (then Kings XI Punjab apart).