Delhi Capitals wicketkeeper-batter KL Rahul believes batting at the top of the order has brought him both clarity and comfort, saying the opening role fits his natural approach and preparation. Speaking on JioStar’s ‘Superstars’ show, Rahul noted that when he knows he is likely to start the innings consistently, it becomes easier to map out a season-long plan—while also acknowledging that cricket still demands flexibility when the team needs changes.
Why Rahul feels the top-order role suits him
Rahul said the biggest advantage of being positioned upfront is the certainty it provides. He explained that knowing where he will bat—described as a “permanent” spot within the team framework—allows him to prepare better. At the same time, he stressed that nothing is truly fixed in a team sport, and adjustments to the batting order can still be required as match situations evolve.
- Rahul said opening for Delhi Capitals makes his day-to-day routine “a bit easier” because he knows his likely batting slot.
- He added that while the role is expected to remain his main position, being flexible is still important because the order can change.
- He emphasized that entering the season with a clear idea of where he will start helps him build a straightforward game plan.
IPL 2026 impact: numbers from the opening spot
Rahul’s comments come as he continues to be viewed as a key batting option for Delhi in IPL 2026. The right-hander has scored 358 runs in eight matches at an average of 51.14 and a strike rate of 185.49. His output includes an unbeaten 152 along with two additional fifties, underlining his ability to convert starts into substantial contributions.
- In IPL 2026, Rahul has made 358 runs in eight games.
- His average stands at 51.14 with a strike rate of 185.49.
- Highlights include an unbeaten 152 and two fifties.
From middle-order stints to a settled top spot
Rahul also reflected on how his role has shifted over time. He said that in IPL 2025, he played multiple matches in the middle-order for Delhi Capitals, but in 2026 he has been a consistent fixture at the top. He described the opening position as one he has occupied for a long period in T20 cricket and the IPL, adding that familiarity helps him manage his game and understand the process needed to support the team.
- Rahul said IPL 2025 saw him bat in the middle-order on a number of occasions.
- In IPL 2026, he has been a permanent presence at the top of the order.
- He described the role as one he is comfortable with because he has spent substantial time there in T20 cricket and the IPL.
- He said the position helps him understand the team process and what he needs to do during innings.
Growth through shifting orders and pressure situations
While Rahul expressed comfort with opening, he also spoke about how stepping out of his usual rhythm has contributed to his growth. He said he has always enjoyed opening across formats and that as a youngster—during junior cricket—and later during international cricket, he typically started the batting. Even so, he acknowledged that he has been moved up and down the order, and those challenges have helped him learn more about his own game.
Rahul added that being tested in difficult conditions forces players to operate outside their comfort zones. He said the outcome can go in two directions—either a batter emerges stronger or loses confidence and struggles. In his case, he believes he has managed to come out better each time and focus on doing what the team requires.
- Rahul said he has always enjoyed the opening role in all formats and that he typically opened since his junior cricket days and in international cricket.
- He noted that being shifted up and down the order has helped him understand his game better.
- He said confronting difficult situations outside his comfort zone either leads to stronger improvement or a breakdown, and he aims to come out “stronger” for the team.
- He added that these challenges have helped him grow not only as a cricketer but also as a person.
