KL Rahul is having an IPL 2026 season to remember. Leading the Delhi Capitals' batting charge, he has amassed 433 runs in just nine matches—the second-highest total in the tournament. With an average of 54.12 and a blistering strike rate of 185.84, including one century and three half-centuries, Rahul is showcasing the full range of his talent: wristy flicks, no-look sixes, and confident drives down the ground.

But his journey to T20 stardom hasn't always been smooth. Ahead of the high-stakes clash between Delhi Capitals and Chennai Super Kings at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, Rahul made a candid admission: "I was never rated as a T20 player." For years, he carried the 'Test specialist' tag, a label that often kept him out of white-ball conversations. "10 years ago, I would have given anything to be part of a T20 team," he revealed on JioStar's 'Superstars'. "I was branded a Test player. So, to break out of that mould, develop my white-ball game, and come this far is something I'm really proud of."

Rahul's evolution reflects the broader shift in T20 cricket, where adaptability is key. "T20 cricket has evolved over the last two or three years, especially in the IPL," he noted. "You can see patterns in how teams are winning." For Rahul, that means maximising the Powerplay and playing with intent—traits he has embraced wholeheartedly this season.

Reflecting on his journey, Rahul remains philosophical. "Along the way, I've made mistakes, and there are things I could have done better. But what I'm proud of is that I've given my absolute best every time I've played," he said. "That's sport; things won't always go your way. You have to take it in your stride and enjoy the journey."

With 539 runs in IPL 2025 at a strike rate of 149.72 already under his belt, Rahul's form is no flash in the pan. As he puts it, "I still have some time left. So, I'll keep trying my best and see how many trophies I can win." For Delhi Capitals fans, that's a reassuring thought as their team eyes the playoffs.