Dinesh Karthik and Dipika Pallikal Blessed with Third Child; Virat Kohli, Sports Fraternity React

Former India wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik and squash champion Dipika Pallikal have welcomed their third child, a baby girl named Raaha Pallikal Karthik.

Sharing the news on social media, the couple expressed immense joy and gratitude, introducing Raaha as the younger sister to their twin sons, Kabir and Zian.

In a touching message, they revealed that the twins are thrilled with their baby sister’s arrival. “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,” the couple wrote.

The announcement drew warm wishes from across the sporting fraternity. Virat Kohli, Shikhar Dhawan and Sania Mirza were among the prominent names who congratulated the couple. Karthik, who represented India across formats during a career spanning over two decades, has since moved into commentary and coaching roles, including stints in the Indian Premier League.

Pallikal, one of India’s most successful squash players, made history as the first Indian woman to break into the world’s top 10 rankings. A recipient of the Padma Shri, she has won multiple medals at the Commonwealth and Asian Games.

After taking a break for motherhood, Pallikal returned strongly to the sport, winning titles at the World Doubles Squash Championships and securing a bronze at the Commonwealth Games 2022. She was last seen in action at the Asian Games 2023, where she clinched gold in mixed doubles, continuing her inspiring journey.