IPL 2023 to Kick off with the Clash of Titans
The excitement in the air is palpable as the sixteenth edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) is just around the corner. IPL has come a long way since its inception in 2008 and has become one of the biggest T20 leagues in the world. The tournament, consisting of star-studded teams and packed with thrilling matches, has captivated cricket fans across India and around the globe.
The tournament will kick off on March 31, 2023, with an opening match between Gujarat Titans and Chennai Super Kings at the magnificent Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. The tournament will go on for almost two months and consist of 74 matches played across 12 cities in India.
A Look Back at IPL’s History
Rajasthan Royals became the first team to lift the trophy in 2008, giving a thrilling start to this amazing cricketing spectacle. Since then, various teams have won the title, making IPL one of the most competitive cricket leagues in the world. Mumbai Indians have been the most successful team winning it five times, followed by Chennai Super Kings who’ve won it four times.
Throughout IPL’s history, there have been memorable performances by players that are etched in the minds of cricket fans forever. Brendon McCullum’s breathtaking knock of 158* runs off just 73 against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the first edition has become a part of IPL folklore. In more recent times, Jos Buttler’s brilliant performance with four centuries in IPL 2022 was extraordinary.
Kunal Singh Rathore Preparing for IPL Debut with Rajasthan Royals
Kunal Singh Rathore from Kota has become a household name having become the first cricketer from the city to get an IPL contract. He was snapped up by Rajasthan Royals at his base price of Rs. 20 lakh in the auction preceding IPL 2023. Rathore, who is a lefthanded wicket-keeper batsman, has played seven List A, five first-class, and seven T20 matches for Rajasthan since 2022.
In an exclusive interview with TimesofIndia.com, Rathore expressed his delight about playing for the same team he supported since he was a child. He is excited about playing alongside Sanju Samson and Jos Buttler and learning as much as he can from them.
Rathore’s inspiration for his batting and wicketkeeping skills is Quinton de Kock. He sees himself as someone who can fit into any batting order as per the team’s requirements. He is confident about his abilities and wants to focus on gaining experience and learning.
Challenges Await Rathore in IPL
As a young player making his debut in IPL, there will be challenges waiting for Rathore. When asked which bowler he would like to face in the nets, he named Trent Boult from Mumbai Indians. Boult is known for his swing bowling, and Rathore wants to challenge himself by facing one of the best swing bowlers in the world.
Rathore also added that he would love to keep wickets against Jos Buttler during practice sessions. He believes that keeping against one of the most destructive batsmen in world cricket will prepare him well before stepping onto the field.
Final Thoughts
IPL 2023 promises to deliver another exciting edition filled with world-class cricketing performances and nail-biting finishes. Young Kunal Singh Rathore has worked hard to earn his place in Rajasthan Royals’ squad and is ready to make his mark in IPL 2023. The passion and dedication that this young cricketer has showcased towards the game are inspiring, and it’s hard not to cheer for a talent that is truly deserving of an IPL contract. We wish him all the best for his debut season and hope that he carves out a successful career in IPL.
Image Source: Wikimedia Commons
