Kunal Singh Rathore: Rising Star Makes Historic IPL Debut for Rajasthan Royals

Breaking New Ground: Kota’s First IPL Star

In a historic moment for cricket enthusiasts from Kota, Rajasthan, 22-year-old Kunal Singh Rathore made his Indian Premier League (IPL) debut for Rajasthan Royals against Kolkata Knight Riders at the iconic Eden Gardens. This milestone marks a significant achievement as Rathore becomes the first cricketer from Kota to secure an IPL contract, inspiring a new generation of cricketers from the educational hub.

From Domestic Cricket to IPL Glory

Rathore’s journey to the IPL is a testament to his dedication and skill in domestic cricket. With an impressive record of 254 runs in 12 T20 matches for Rajasthan, maintaining a solid average of 36.28 and a striking rate of 138, he has proven his worth in the shorter format of the game. His experience extends beyond T20s, with 15 first-class matches and 16 List A matches under his belt, showcasing his versatility across all formats.

Strategic Addition to Rajasthan Royals

The Rajasthan Royals secured Rathore’s services for Rs 30 lakh during the IPL 2025 mega auction, adding him to their impressive roster of wicketkeeper-batters. He joins the experienced Sanju Samson and talented Dhruv Jurel, forming a formidable wicketkeeping trio for the franchise. This strategic acquisition demonstrates the team’s commitment to nurturing local talent while strengthening their squad depth.

Inspiration and Determination

Drawing inspiration from South African wicketkeeper-batter Quinton de Kock, Rathore has modeled his game after the international star’s dynamic batting style and exceptional wicketkeeping skills. His admiration for de Kock has helped shape his approach to the game, combining aggressive batting with reliable glovework behind the stumps.

Breaking Barriers in Kota

Rathore’s success story is particularly inspiring given Kota’s reputation as an educational powerhouse rather than a cricketing hub. Despite facing initial resistance from his parents, who prioritized academic pursuits, his unwavering passion for cricket eventually won their support. This journey highlights the importance of following one’s dreams and the potential for success in sports, even from unexpected backgrounds.

Impact on Local Cricket Culture

As the first IPL player from Kota, Rathore’s achievement is expected to have a lasting impact on the city’s sporting landscape. His success could potentially inspire educational institutions and local authorities to invest more in cricket infrastructure and training facilities, paving the way for future generations of cricketers from the region.

Future Prospects

With his debut for Rajasthan Royals, Kunal Singh Rathore stands at the threshold of what promises to be an exciting cricket career. His journey from domestic cricket to the IPL demonstrates the opportunities available for talented players in Indian cricket, regardless of their background. As he continues to develop his skills alongside experienced players in the IPL, Rathore’s story serves as an inspiration for aspiring cricketers across India.