IPL 2025: KL Rahul’s Masterclass in Adaptation Secures Victory for Delhi Capitals
BENGALURU: In a display of sheer grit and adaptability, KL Rahul proclaimed, “Mera ground hai” (This is my ground), after his unbeaten knock of 93 runs guided Delhi Capitals (DC) to a commanding six-wicket triumph over Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) on a testing M Chinnaswamy Stadium surface on Thursday night.
Rahul, a local hero in Bengaluru, has a deep connection with this venue, having played several iconic innings here, including a monumental triple century in the Ranji Trophy for Karnataka. Now in his 12th year as an international cricketer, the 32-year-old has truly mastered the art of adaptation. Whether opening the batting, anchoring the middle order at No. 5, or even donning the gloves with agility behind the stumps, Rahul epitomizes the quintessential team man, executing his role with quiet determination.
Despite facing numerous challenges, including recurring injuries that have sidelined him for significant periods over the past few years, Rahul has consistently defied his critics. Each time his career seemed to be at a crossroads, he has authored a new chapter of resilience. His ability to adapt to varying roles and conditions remains the cornerstone of his journey, showcasing his versatility and class.
RCB’s batting coach Dinesh Karthik, who has observed Rahul’s evolution closely, praised his flexibility. “It’s incredibly challenging to bat at different positions in T20 cricket, but Rahul has managed it with finesse in recent times. I’ve long believed he’s a high-quality middle-order batter, and the results are now evident for everyone to see,” Karthik remarked post-match.
Rahul, who survived an early scare when RCB skipper Rajat Patidar dropped him on just 5 runs, made the most of his reprieve. Speaking at the post-match presentation, he reiterated his bond with the venue: “This is my ground, my home. I know Chinnaswamy better than anyone else. I thoroughly enjoyed playing here tonight.”
While DC’s top order, including Jake Fraser-McGurk, Faf du Plessis, and Abhishek Porel, faltered with ill-advised cross-batted shots on a sluggish pitch, Rahul’s approach stood out. Most of his boundaries and sixes came from an open-faced bat technique, a testament to his technical prowess and game awareness.
Explaining his strategy, Rahul credited his time behind the stumps for providing crucial insights. “Being a wicketkeeper for 20 overs helped me immensely. I observed how the pitch behaved—there was a bit of grip, but it was consistent. I knew which shots to play and which areas to target. If I wanted to hit a big six, I had my pockets mapped out. Watching other batters struggle gave me a clear plan: start aggressively, assess the conditions, and then build my innings,” he elaborated.
Rahul’s performance wasn’t just a personal triumph; it was a statement of intent for Delhi Capitals in IPL 2025. With 1,549 runs in the IPL for RCB across earlier seasons and a career tally of over 4,500 runs in the tournament at an average of 46.78, Rahul’s return to form at his home ground is a warning to oppositions. His ability to switch gears—evident in his strike rate of 136.09 this season—makes him a vital cog in DC’s campaign for the coveted title.
As the IPL 2025 season unfolds, KL Rahul’s adaptability and hunger for runs could well be the defining factor for Delhi Capitals. For now, Chinnaswamy remains his fortress, and on Thursday night, he reigned supreme.