Dinesh Karthik Welcomes Baby Girl Raaha With Dipika Pallikal; Kohli & Cricket World React

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Former India cricketer Dinesh Karthik and squash star Dipika Pallikal have announced the birth of their third child, a baby girl named Raaha Pallikal Karthik.

The couple shared the news through a heartfelt social media post, introducing their daughter as the younger sister to their twin sons, Kabir and Zian.

"With blessings in our hearts and gratitude beyond words, we joyfully welcome our precious girl into this world. Kabir and Zian are thrilled to introduce their baby sister, Raaha Pallikal Karthik. Love, Dipika & Dinesh," the couple wrote.

Wishes pour in from across the cricketing world

The announcement quickly drew warm reactions from across the sporting fraternity. Virat Kohli led the way with a simple yet heartfelt response, dropping a heart emoji on the couple's post.

Others, including Sania Mirza and Shikhar Dhawan, also extended their congratulations, reflecting the strong bond Karthik shares within the Indian sporting ecosystem.

Karthik and Kohli are set to reunite once again in the Indian Premier League, with Karthik continuing his role in the Royal Challengers Bengaluru setup.

A growing family and enduring legacy

The couple, who got married in 2015 in both traditional Hindu and Christian ceremonies, had welcomed their twin sons in 2021. The arrival of Raaha marks a new chapter in their journey together.

Beyond the personal milestone, both Karthik and Pallikal have carved out remarkable sporting careers.

Karthik, a veteran wicketkeeper-batter, enjoyed a career spanning over two decades for India across formats before transitioning into coaching and commentary. He currently serves as part of the Royal Challengers Bengaluru support staff.

Pallikal, meanwhile, remains one of India's most accomplished squash players - the first Indian woman to break into the world's top 10, a Padma Shri awardee, and a multiple-time medalist at the Commonwealth and Asian Games.

For Karthik and Pallikal, the spotlight shifts, briefly but meaningfully, from stadiums to family - with Raaha's arrival bringing with it joy not just for them, but for a community that has watched their journeys closely.