KL Rahul reveals why Athiya Shetty didn't come to stadium during World Cup 2023: She's superstitious

Indian wicketkeeper-batsman KL Rahul recently revealed the driving force behind his quest to become a better version of himself – his wife and Bollywood actor, Athiya Shetty. In a candid chat with Star Sports, he opened up about the role Athiya plays in motivating him and shared insights into their dynamics, both on and off the cricket field.

KL Rahul reveals Athiya Shetty is superstitious

KL Rahul highlighted a common thread of superstition that binds him and Athiya Shetty. He said that just like her father, Suniel Shetty, the actress has specific rituals she follows when he is on the cricket pitch. For the unversed, Suniel had his own unique ritual during the World Cup – watching the entire event while sitting on the floor.

As India hosted the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup, Rahul insisted that Athiya join him at the stadium to witness the matches. However, Athiya, adhering to her superstitions, opted to watch the games from the comfort of their home. Rahul humorously shared that she has a designated "lucky spot" at home and has specific rituals she follows during his matches.

He said, “She has a lucky spot at home. So, she wants to sit there. You know how partners can be, they have their lucky positions, their lucky seats. They want to sit there and watch it. She’ll not move when I’m batting. She has certain superstitions when I am playing.” 

KL Rahul says Athiya was 'more angry' when he got hurt on the field

KL Rahul also shed light on a challenging period in his career when he suffered a tendon injury during an IPL match. Despite the physical toll, he found himself in the role of a comforter for Athiya, who was more "frustrated and angry" about the injury than he was.

The cricketer shared that while it was a tough time for both of them, it provided the much-needed opportunity to spend quality time together. He said that Athiya's love became a crucial element in his healing process. 

He added, “It was tough for both of us but it also gave us time that we needed together. She gave me a lot of love.” During the interview, Rahul showered praise on his wife and said, “If I am peaceful if I am in a balanced state of mind, that helps me perform my best, and that’s what she does for me in terms of cricket and professionally. Also, I can be a little too laid back and content at times. She challenges me to do better, push my boundaries a little bit.”