Ambati Rayudu believes KL Rahul has been a game-changing presence for every franchise he has played for in the IPL, and he feels Delhi Capitals should now build around him to finally lift the trophy. Rayudu pointed to Rahul’s latest run of form and said the wicketkeeper-batter’s ability to take on top opponents—especially during key phases—has made him stand out this season.
Quick facts
- KL Rahul scored 593 runs in IPL 2026 across 14 matches.
- His strike rate in IPL 2026 was 174.41.
- He made a 30-ball 60 against Kolkata Knight Riders at Eden Gardens.
- Delhi Capitals finished sixth on the points table.
Rayudu highlighted how Rahul’s matchups against spin specialist Sunil Narine turned into a statement of intent rather than a struggle. He described Rahul as “picking him well” and added that the straight drives he played versus Narine were among the most impressive shots anyone had produced against Narine so far in the campaign.
The former India batter also argued that Rahul does not shy away from the sport’s biggest names with the bat. Rayudu cited Rahul’s willingness to challenge bowlers such as Josh Hazlewood and Narine, calling him a “class player” and insisting that Delhi needs to give him a squad capable of delivering silverware.
In Rayudu’s view, Rahul’s value goes beyond one season because he has consistently performed for different teams. “He has been a fantastic batsman for any team that he has played for,” Rayudu said, before adding that the trophy should come “soon” if Delhi can get the pieces right around him.
Boucher on Rahul’s spin assault
Mark Boucher, the former Mumbai Indians head coach, praised Rahul’s influence in IPL 2026 as well, framing it around how he attacked during the middle overs. Boucher said Rahul’s aggressive approach against Narine and Varun Chakravarthy helped set the tone for Delhi Capitals when the contest typically tightens.
Boucher stressed that one of the biggest reasons Rahul matters to Delhi is that he consistently helps them get beyond the powerplay. He referenced how KKR’s “spin twins” Narine and Chakravarthy often make life tough for other teams after the early overs, but suggested that Rahul’s entry into the middle overs can still change the momentum of the game.
He also noted that even when KKR’s bowlers keep their economy under control, Rahul’s role is to ensure they cannot fully impose their rhythm. Boucher said KKR’s economy rates were still around eight to nine, but that Delhi benefited because Rahul set the acceleration for the overs in which he dominated.
“That is what one quality batsman [can do]… He is not good, he is a very good player,” Boucher added, pointing to how dominance from a single batter can reshape the flow of matches.
Why DC missed the playoffs again
With Delhi Capitals yet to make the playoffs, Boucher suggested the situation came down to “what-ifs.” He argued that the margin was thin—if Delhi had secured two more wins, they would have been in the qualifying mix, and he felt the team looked capable in the way it conducted itself.
Rayudu agreed with the idea that Delhi’s campaign deserved better outcomes. He felt the Capitals had the ingredients to push for the title, especially because their bowling unit carried plenty of experience and match-winners.
Rayudu pointed to a bowling group that included Mitchell Starc, Lungi Ngidi, Kuldeep Yadav and Axar Patel as a core strength. He also said Delhi’s batting line-up, with David Miller alongside KL Rahul and other contributors, had the balance needed to compete deep into the tournament.
In Rayudu’s assessment, Delhi should have been fighting for the top two positions and aiming to play the final. He then added that the issue had not been limited to this season, arguing that the franchise has frequently had strong squads but struggled to maintain the right momentum for long stretches.
“Somehow they have managed to just not do things right for the longest time,” Rayudu said. He urged Delhi to reflect on the shortcomings, come back stronger, and—while suggesting improvement—avoid making wholesale changes to the “big ones” in their squad.
