Biography

Perhaps the most unfortunate left-arm spinner amongst the lot, Murali Kartik's presence was overshadowed due to the already existing geniuses in the form of Anil Kumble, and later, Harbhajan Singh. With a high-arm action, Kartik is known for his ability to generate extra spin and bounce, and possesses a trajectory of a different kind.

Kartik made his first-class debut in 1996/97 and represented the Railways, before being selected in the Indian U-19 team. He then went on to debut at the international level in a Test match in 2000, against South Africa in Mumbai. Disciplinary issues had serious repercussions on his career as he was often used as a defensive option. The then skipper Sourav Ganguly's lack of trust in him stripped him of further chances and resulted in him underbowling. However, Kartik rose to prominence in ODIs since his debut in 2002, and impressed with his classically moulded bowling. His moment of glory came against Australia in 2004-05, where India clinched a famous victory, thanks to his seven-wicket haul. Kartik played just one Test after this and was then consigned to the fringes.

Later, a solid performance in a stint with Middlesex in 2007 helped him regain his place in the ODI side for a series against Australia. He remains a popular overseas player in county cricket, with representation for Lancashire, Middlesex and later, Somerset. Kartik was bought by Kolkata in the first edition of the Indian T20 league before moving to the Pune franchise. He was bought by Bengaluru later. In the 2014 auction, he was purchased by Mohali.