Vinay Kumar backs skipper Karthik

Seamer R Vinay Kumar today threw his weight behind in-form wicketkeeper-batsman Dinesh Karthik who was a surprise choice to lead the two-time champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL).

KKR, who chose not to retain their two-time IPL winning skipper Gautam Gambhir, have handed the baton to Karthik who has big shoes to fill and will have veteran Robin Uthappa as his deputy.

"He did not lead many matches for Tamil Nadu does not mean he's not a good leader. He's a very good leader, hopefully he will do well. We have many seniors, have to help each other," Vinay Kumar, a former Karnataka skipper, said.

Karthik has played for five franchises in IPL -- Delhi Daredevils, Kings XI Punjab, Mumbai Indians, Royal Challengers Bangalore and Gujarat Lions -- in 152 matches across 10 seasons before joining KKR.

As a skipper, Karthik led Tamil Nadu to the Vijay Hazare Trophy one-day tournament win over Bengal in 2009-10, and also captained India Red to the Duleep Trophy title last year. He also led Albert Tuti Patriots to the the Tamil Nadu Premier League title in 2016.

"He's really a good guy. I've played most of my cricket with him or against him. The way he played for India in the final was amazing," he said referring to his eight ball 29 not out to win the final of the Tri-series T20I tournament in Sri Lanka.

"From nowhere he took the game and finished the game. He's a very nice guy and will definitely do well for KKR. I look forward, it's all about play as a team."