Innovative strokes not enough to score runs in T20: Karthik

Gujarat Lions wicket-keeper batsman Dinesh Karthik, on Sunday, said that playing innovative shots is not enough to score runs in the shortest format of the game.

"In modern cricket, many batsmen play innovative strokes which I think are not enough to score runs in T20 format," the 30-year-old batsman said, in Rajkot, at the SCA stadium in Khandheri where Gujarat Lions players started practise.

The Lions will play their first match on April 11 against Kings XI Punjab in Mohali in the Indian Premier League (IPL).

"T20 format is not all about playing innovative shots, as batsman like Virat Kohli have been scoring lot of runs by playing only cricketing shots" he said.

"In this format, the batsmen should stay calm and execute his shots selection properly to score runs," the Chennai-born player said.

Karthik, who had earlier represented Mumbai Indians, Delhi Daredevils among other teams, said he was very happy to be associated with Gujarat Lions.

"I am very happy and excited with the new team as most of things are new like coach, team-mates and ground," he added.

Karthik, Pradeep Sangwan, head coach Brad Hodge, bowling coach Heath Streak arrived in Rajkot on Saturday, while rest of the players like captain Suresh Raina, Ravindra Jadeja will join the team soon.