Kunal Singh Rathore Makes IPL Debut
With his debut, Rathore becomes a beacon of inspiration for aspiring cricketers from Kota, showing that with dedication and hard work, they too can reach the pinnacle of Indian cricket, the Indian Premier League.
Kunal Singh Rathore, a wicket-keeper from Kota, is set to make his Indian Premier League debut for Rajasthan Royals, becoming the first player from his city to feature in the league, marking a significant milestone in his cricketing career.
Rathore's journey to the IPL has been paved with modest beginnings in domestic cricket, but his potential was evident in the 2022 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, where he scored 147 runs at a healthy average and strike rate. This performance caught the attention of the Rajasthan Royals, who selected him for their squad ahead of the 2023 season.
Under the mentorship of head coach Kumar Sangakkara, Rathore has shown significant improvement in his game. In the 2023-24 Ranji Trophy season, he scored 245 runs, and in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, he added 250 runs to his tally, while also taking 24 dismissals. Furthermore, he has demonstrated promise as a batsman, notably increasing his strike rate in the latest Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy.
As Rathore prepares for his first IPL appearance, he carries the hopes of his city, Kota, on his shoulders. His debut marks a landmark moment, not just for him, but for the city he represents, making his journey a testament to perseverance and talent.