As excitement builds for the Indian Premier League 2026, there is joyful news off the field for Royal Challengers Bangalore. The team’s mentor and batting coach Dinesh Karthik has embraced fatherhood once again, adding a special personal milestone just before the new season begins.

Karthik’s wife, Dipika Pallikal, has given birth to a baby girl. The former Indian wicketkeeper-batsman shared the happy news on social media, introducing his daughter to fans and well-wishers. The couple has named their newborn “Raha,” bringing immense joy to their family.

Dinesh Karthik and Dipika Pallikal, who got married in 2015 after being engaged for two years, had previously welcomed twin sons, Jian and Kabir, in 2021. With the arrival of their daughter, the family has now grown even more special.

Karthik, who retired from international and franchise cricket in 2024, has since transitioned into a mentoring role with RCB. Known for his finishing abilities during his playing days, he is now contributing to the team by guiding young players and strengthening the batting unit ahead of IPL 2026.

Over the course of his career, Karthik represented India in 26 Tests, 94 ODIs, and 60 T20 internationals, scoring a total of 3,463 runs. As he prepares for a new IPL season in a coaching role, this personal milestone adds another layer of happiness to his journey.

The timing of this joyful news has made IPL 2026 even more memorable for the veteran cricketer and the RCB camp.