Jobaaj Stories
Kunal Singh Rathore: Rajasthan Royals' Rising Star Makes IPL Debut
The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 saw a new face emerge on May 4th when Kunal Singh Rathore, a young wicketkeeper-batter from Rajasthan, made his debut for the Rajasthan Royals against the Kolkata Knight Riders at Eden Gardens. While his debut wasn't as storybook as hoped, his journey to the IPL is a testament to his dedication and talent, making him a player to watch in the future.
A Disappointing, Yet Unforgettable, Debut
Stepping in for the injured Nitish Rana, Rathore's first IPL appearance ended in a five-ball duck. Facing Moeen Ali, he was caught by Andre Russell, a disappointing end to a highly anticipated debut. Despite the early exit, the experience of playing on such a grand stage against seasoned professionals is invaluable for the young cricketer.
From Kota to the IPL: Kunal Singh Rathore's Journey
Rathore's path to the IPL wasn't straightforward. Hailing from Kota, Rajasthan—a city not traditionally known for its cricketing prowess—he faced challenges convincing his parents to support his cricketing ambitions. He began playing at age eight, eventually making the Rajasthan U19 team after missing out on the U14 squad. Passport issues even prevented him from attending the U19 World Cup in 2022. His perseverance paid off when he was picked up by the Rajasthan Royals at his base price of INR 30 lakh in the IPL 2025 auction.
Five Key Facts About Kunal Singh Rathore:
- Started young: Began playing cricket at the age of 8.
- Missed U19 World Cup: Passport issues prevented him from attending the 2022 tournament.
- Wicketkeeper by choice: Initially a fast bowler, he switched to wicketkeeping to secure more batting opportunities.
- Kota's first IPL player: Became the first cricketer from Kota to secure an IPL contract.
- Inspired by Quinton de Kock: The South African wicketkeeper-batter serves as his inspiration.
Looking Ahead
While his debut match didn't go as planned, Kunal Singh Rathore's story is far from over. His resilience, talent, and the support of the Rajasthan Royals indicate a promising future in the IPL and beyond. His journey serves as inspiration for aspiring cricketers from smaller towns, proving that with hard work and dedication, even the most challenging dreams can be realised. This young cricketer will undoubtedly learn from this experience and emerge stronger in future matches. Keep an eye on this rising star!
