Kunal Rathore
Role: Wicketkeeper-Batsman
DOB: 09 October 2002
IPL Team (2026): Unsold
Base Price: INR 20 Lakhs (last known)
IPL CAREER STATISTICS (Updated April 2026)
Batting & Fielding
| Year | Mat | Inn | NO | Runs | HS | Avg | BF | SR | 100 | 50 | 4s | 6s | CT |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Career | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | – | – | 0 | – | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Bowling
| Year | Mat | Balls | Runs | Wkts | BBI | Avg | Econ | SR | 4W | 5W |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Career | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – | – |
The Story of Kunal Rathore
Born in Jaipur, Rajasthan, Kunal Rathore represents the new wave of young Indian wicketkeeper-batsmen eagerly knocking on the IPL door. A product of Rajasthan’s robust domestic circuit, Rathore first caught the eye with his clean glovework and aggressive, yet composed, batting style in age-group cricket. His journey to the IPL spotlight began with consistent performances for Rajasthan in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and Vijay Hazare Trophy, showcasing glimpses of a player ready for the big stage.
Rathore’s breakthrough moment came when he was snapped up by his home franchise, Rajasthan Royals, in the IPL 2023 auction for his base price of INR 20 Lakhs. While he didn’t get a chance to make his IPL debut in either the 2023 or 2024 seasons, serving as a crucial backup to established stars, his presence in the squad spoke volumes about the Royals’ belief in his potential. He’s known for his fearless approach with the bat, capable of finding boundaries early in his innings, coupled with a solid defensive technique when required. Behind the stumps, his agility and quick reflexes are highly rated by coaches.
Despite the wait for his maiden IPL cap, Rathore’s development continues apace. He’s often seen honing his skills alongside international stalwarts in the Royals’ camp, absorbing invaluable lessons. Fans and pundits alike anticipate his debut, eager to see if this young talent can translate his domestic promise into IPL success. His story is one of patience, perseverance, and the quiet determination to seize an opportunity when it finally arrives, embodying the spirit of a modern-day cricketer.
IPL Journey: Team by Team
Kunal Rathore’s IPL journey has, so far, been exclusively with his home franchise, the Rajasthan Royals. He was first acquired by the Royals in the IPL 2023 mega-auction for his base price of INR 20 Lakhs. The franchise saw him as a promising young wicketkeeper-batsman, a valuable backup option, and a potential future star. He remained with the Rajasthan Royals for the IPL 2024 season, having been retained by the team.
Despite being part of the squad for two consecutive seasons (2023 and 2024), Rathore is yet to make his IPL debut. He spent his time in the dugout, learning from experienced players and coaches, and was a key member of the training squad. His role was primarily as a backup wicketkeeper, ready to step in should the primary keeper be unavailable. For the IPL 2025 auction, it is highly probable that he was released by the Royals, given his lack of game time, and subsequently went unsold in the 2026 auction, awaiting another opportunity to showcase his talent.
What Makes Them Special: Betting Perspective
From a betting perspective, Kunal Rathore currently represents a long-term prospect rather than an immediate impact player, given his lack of IPL appearances. However, his domestic T20 record (149 runs in 11 matches at a strike rate of 120.16, as of early 2024) suggests a player who can contribute with quick runs down the order. Bettors should look for his inclusion in the playing XI as a potential dark horse for ‘Total Runs’ or ‘Sixes’ props if he gets an opportunity in a high-scoring game.
His primary strength lies in his wicketkeeping, which provides team balance. If he secures a spot, it would likely be due to his dual ability. Keep an eye on team news for any injuries to primary wicketkeepers, as that would be Rathore’s most likely pathway into the XI. His youth suggests a high ceiling for improvement, making him a potential value pick in future auctions or fantasy leagues once he gains IPL experience. Betting on him now is speculative, but future opportunities could arise, especially in conditions that favor aggressive lower-order hitting or if a team needs a reliable gloveman with batting potential.
Key Records & Milestones
- One of the youngest wicketkeeper-batsmen to be signed by an IPL franchise (Rajasthan Royals in 2023) without having made an IPL debut.
- Part of an IPL squad for two consecutive seasons (2023, 2024) with the Rajasthan Royals.
- Highest score of 49* in domestic T20 cricket, showcasing his potential as a finisher.
IPL Season Highlights
As of April 2026, Kunal Rathore is yet to make his IPL debut. Therefore, there are no specific IPL season highlights or match performances to detail. His journey within the IPL has been spent as a valuable squad member for the Rajasthan Royals in the 2023 and 2024 seasons, where he gained invaluable experience training alongside some of the world’s best cricketers. Fans eagerly await the opportunity to see him take the field and showcase his talent in the world’s premier T20 league.