Raina compared Kartik\u2019s temperament and role clarity to Badrinath, who was regarded as one of CSK\u2019s most dependable middle-order batters during the franchise\u2019s early years, stating that Kartik has begun showing similar traits in pressure situations this season.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cAt number four, Badrinath always delivered for CSK. The way he batted and handled that role was top-class. Now, I feel young Kartik Sharma is playing that same role really well. He plays spin confidently, rotates the strike smartly, handles pace without trouble, and stays calm under pressure,\u201d Raina told JioStar.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Raina further explained that those qualities were exactly what made Badrinath such an important player for Chennai\u2019s batting unit, saying, \u201cThese were exactly Badrinath's strengths, and Kartik is showing the same qualities.\u201d<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The praise comes after a strong run of performances from the 20-year-old, who has begun repaying the franchise's faith in him following his high-profile signing ahead of the season.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Kartik has looked increasingly assured in the middle order over CSK\u2019s last five matches, scoring 32 against Sunrisers Hyderabad, 71 against Lucknow Super Giants in Lucknow, 20 against LSG in Chennai, an unbeaten 41 against Delhi Capitals, and an unbeaten 54 against Mumbai Indians.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
His recent knocks have highlighted not just attacking ability, but also composure in chases and the capacity to anchor innings through the middle overs, attributes long associated with Badrinath during CSK\u2019s title-winning era. Raina also pointed to the youngster\u2019s temperament and value to the side while backing CSK\u2019s investment in him.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Kartik has looked increasingly assured in the middle order over CSK\u2019s last five matches, scoring 32 against Sunrisers Hyderabad, 71 against Lucknow Super Giants in Lucknow, 20 against LSG in Chennai, an unbeaten 41 against Delhi Capitals, and an unbeaten 54 against Mumbai Indians.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cCSK spent good money on him, and he is living up to it. He is a quality player. I have shared many partnerships with Badrinath, and Kartik is proving to be just as good at number four,\u201d Raina added.<\/p>\r\n\r\n