Kunal Singh Rathore, a promising left-handed wicketkeeper-batsman from Kota, Rajasthan, has been making waves in Indian domestic cricket and the Indian Premier League (IPL). Born on October 9, 2002, Kunal’s journey from the streets of Kota to the grand stadiums of the IPL is a testament to his dedication and talent.
🏏 Early Life and Background
Growing up in a middle-class family in Kota, Kunal’s passion for cricket was evident from a young age. He would often tie a ball to a door at home and practice for hours. Recognizing his dedication, his father enrolled him in a cricket academy in Kota. Although he faced initial setbacks, including not being selected in his first Under-14 trials at age 10, Kunal’s perseverance led him to further training at Sanskar Academy in Jaipur during summer vacations. (StarsUnfolded)
🏆 Domestic Cricket Achievements
Kunal made his mark in domestic cricket with consistent performances:
- First-Class (Ranji Trophy): Debuted in December 2022 against Goa. In the 2023-24 season, he scored 245 runs in 6 matches, including a maiden century of 156 against Manipur. His wicketkeeping skills were also notable, with 19 dismissals. (IPL T20)
- List A (Vijay Hazare Trophy): Debuted in November 2022 against Assam. In the 2023-24 season, he amassed 250 runs in 9 matches, averaging 41.66, and contributed significantly to Rajasthan reaching the finals. (IPL T20)
- T20 (Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy): Debuted in October 2022 against Madhya Pradesh. In the 2022 tournament, he scored 147 runs at an average of 36.75 and a strike rate of 128.94, catching the attention of IPL scouts. (thegothictimes.com)
🏏 IPL Journey with Rajasthan Royals
Kunal’s consistent domestic performances earned him a spot with the Rajasthan Royals in the IPL:
- 2023: Signed for INR 20 lakh, becoming the first cricketer from Kota to secure an IPL contract. (Cricbuzz)
- 2024: Retained by the Royals, reflecting the franchise’s faith in his potential.
- 2025: Reacquired by the Royals for INR 30 lakh. He made his IPL debut on May 4, 2025, against Kolkata Knight Riders at Eden Gardens. (Cricbuzz)
📊 Career Statistics
| Format | Matches | Runs | Average | Strike Rate | Highest Score | 100s | 50s | Catches | Stumpings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| First-Class | 15 | 580 | 30.52 | 68.88 | 156 | 1 | 2 | 49 | 2 |
| List A | 16 | 404 | 36.72 | 102.02 | 79 | 0 | 3 | 28 | 3 |
| T20 | 12 | 254 | 36.28 | 138.04 | 61* | 0 | 1 | 8 | 0 |
🌟 Key Highlights
- Versatility: Kunal’s ability to adapt across formats showcases his versatility and commitment to the game.
- Wicketkeeping Skills: His agility and sharp reflexes behind the stumps have earned him accolades and solidified his position as a reliable wicketkeeper.
- Batting Prowess: With a blend of technique and aggression, Kunal has consistently contributed crucial runs for his team.
💡 Future Prospects
At just 22, Kunal Singh Rathore’s cricketing journey is on an upward trajectory. With continued dedication and performance, he is poised to become a mainstay in both domestic and international arenas.
📚 FAQs
Q1: When did Kunal Singh Rathore make his domestic debut?
A: He made his domestic debut across all formats in 2022.
Q2: What is his highest score in First-Class cricket?
A: His highest score is 156 against Manipur in the Ranji Trophy.
Q3: Has he played in the IPL?
A: Yes, he made his IPL debut on May 4, 2025, for Rajasthan Royals against Kolkata Knight Riders.(Cricbuzz)
📌 Conclusion
Kunal Singh Rathore’s journey from the streets of Kota to the grand stages of Indian cricket is inspiring. His dedication, skill, and resilience make him a player to watch in the coming years.
⚠️ Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only. All information is sourced from publicly available data and is accurate as of the publication date. The content adheres to Google Ads policies and is suitable for all audiences.(News24)