RCB mentor Dinesh Karthik and Dipika Pallikal welcome third child, baby girl Raaha

Former India wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik and squash star Dipika Pallikal have joyfully announced the arrival of their baby girl, Raaha Pallikal Karthik, marking a heartwarming addition to their family.

They shared the news on social media expressing gratitude and delight, introducing Raaha as the younger sister of their twin sons, Kabir and Zian. The couple had tied the knot on August 25, 2015, in traditional Hindu and Christian ceremonies and welcomed their twins in 2021.

“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 Instagram post read.

Karthik, a former Indian international, enjoyed a distinguished career as a wicketkeeper-batter before transitioning into coaching and commentary after retiring from competitive cricket. Over more than two decades, he represented India in Tests, ODIs, and T20 Internationals, and later served as a mentor and batting coach for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the Indian Premier League (IPL).

Karthik is currently part of RCB’s coaching staff as the batting coach, working alongside a highly experienced support team that includes Andy Flower as head coach and Omkar Salvi as bowling coach. The support staff also features Richard Halsall as assistant coach, Malolan Rangarajan as spin bowling coach and player identification manager, Basu Shanker as strength and conditioning coach, Evan Speechly and James Pipe as team physiotherapists, Navnita Gautam as athletic therapist, and Dr Shikha Dhaundiyal as team doctor.

RCB ended their 17-year IPL trophy drought by defeating Punjab Kings (PBKS) in the IPL 2025 final. The team will aim to defend the title in IPL 2026, retaining their core players and strengthening the squad through the mini-auction. The 19th edition of the IPL will begin on March 28, with RCB facing Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in the season opener at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium.