The Indian wicket-keeper batsman has the kindest words about his opponents. Of Afghanistan –whose maiden Test he will be a part of come Thursday, June 14 – he said: “It’s been beautiful, isn’t it? Their journey has been an inspiration for international cricket.

“Today, they are household names in the few years they’ve played, and it’s only going to get better. I genuinely hope they have the opportunity to play a lot of Test cricket.”

As a result, he’s been in great touch in limited-overs cricket, his controlled aggression the standout of a thrilling Nidahas Trophy final. With Saha’s absence from injury, it’s another opportunity for him – especially with the tour of England coming up, a place where he’s had success in the past.

But, while being back in whites is a dream come true, Karthik isn’t letting it define him anymore. There are things more important.

“I’m trying to be consistent, even if I don’t get the opportunity, even if I don’t end up playing at the highest level,” he said. “I want to be content with the fact that I’ve given it everything. They keep saying do your processes, and things will follow, so I’m just doing what I think is right.”