New Delhi, May 5: KL Rahul is making waves in IPL 2026 as a wicketkeeper and opening batsman for the Delhi Capitals. With an impressive tally of 433 runs, including one century and three half-centuries in nine matches, Rahul has opened up about his partnership with Pathum Nissanka, his role in the team, and the changes in his life since becoming a father.
Discussing his aggressive approach as an opening batsman on GeoStar’s “Superstars,” Rahul stated, “T20 cricket has evolved over the last two or three years, especially in the IPL. You can see how teams are winning. Those who dominate the powerplay often win matches. A few years ago, the game’s outcome was usually decided between the 14th and 20th overs. While the powerplay was always important, its significance has increased. Personally, I had to adapt to this for the team. This season, the team’s message was clear: they wanted me to bat at the top and play freely. This clarity has allowed me to focus on maximizing my skill set. You won’t always succeed, but the idea is right. My focus is on making the most of the powerplay. That’s what the team and T20 cricket demand right now.”
On starting the innings with Pathum Nissanka, Rahul remarked, “It’s fun. We’ve had a couple of good partnerships where we’ve made strong starts. The team aims for around 60 runs in the powerplay. Contributing 25-30 runs in the initial overs can be crucial. Most of our discussions revolve around playing good cricketing shots and maintaining an aggressive mindset. I’ve had many opening partners over the years, and it’s always enjoyable to play with different players. Most of our discussions happen off the field, and we try to challenge each other during training.”
In IPL 2026, Rahul is batting with a strike rate above 185, altering his established image as a Test player. He commented, “Ten years ago, I would have done anything to be part of the T20 team. I was never seen as a T20 player or a good white-ball cricketer. I was promoted as a Test player. Breaking out of that mold, developing my white-ball game, and reaching this point is something I truly take pride in. I’ve made mistakes and there were things I could have done better. I’m proud that I’ve given my best each time to give myself a chance to succeed. Whether I win or lose, I will continue to strive for excellence and see how many trophies I can win.”
Reflecting on the performance of other teams in IPL 2026, Rahul noted, “Punjab has played some excellent cricket. It seems they have showcased all their capabilities. Shreyas has led the team well. This isn’t a one-off performance; he did the same last year. Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) and Rajasthan Royals (RR) are also playing great cricket. It’s exciting to see Bhuvneshwar and Josh Hazlewood bowling for RCB, and Jofra Archer and Nandre Burger for RR.”
On the joy of fatherhood, Rahul shared, “Becoming a father has been the most beautiful experience for me. I always thought I had peace and happiness in my life, but I was wrong. You don’t truly understand joy, peace, or happiness until you hold your child. This is the most beautiful phase of my life, and I’m enjoying every moment of it. It’s hard to leave him behind.”
He added, “I thought it would get easier as she grows, but I was mistaken. Now that she is running around and trying to talk, it has become even more challenging. She has traveled for a few games, and while I would love to play and then go out, it’s not always possible. When I see her smile, all my aches, pains, and worries disappear. I don’t think about the game as much anymore.”
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