IPL 2026 | 'I was never rated as a T20 player': KL Rahul's candid admission ahead of DC vs CSK clash

NEW DELHI: KL Rahul has been in top form in IPL 2026. Wrist work, flicks, no-look sixes, dancing down the track and launching the ball over deep mid-wicket - the tournament has showcased every shot in his armoury. Rahul is the highest run-getter for Delhi Capitals this season and the second-highest overall, with 433 runs in 9 matches at an average of 54.12 and a strike rate of 185.84. He also has one century and three half-centuries to his name.

Ahead of the IPL 2026 clash between Delhi Capitals and Chennai Super Kings at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi, Rahul admitted he was “never rated as a T20 player” and was often tagged as a Test specialist.

Speaking on JioStar’s ‘Superstars’, Rahul explained how he moved beyond the tag of being a Test player to become an all-format cricketer.

"10 years ago, I would have given anything to be part of a T20 team. I was never rated as a T20 player or even considered a good white-ball player; 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," KL Rahul said.

"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 and prepared as well as I could to give myself the best chance to succeed. That’s sport; things won’t always go your way. You have to take it in your stride and enjoy the journey. I’ve always tried to stay balanced, whether I win or lose. Whenever I feel low about what I haven’t achieved, I remind myself of what I have, and it gives me perspective. I still have some time left. So, I’ll keep trying my best and see how many trophies I can win," he said.

Rahul was also in sublime form last year. He played 13 matches in IPL 2025, scoring 539 runs at an average of 53.90 and a strike rate of 149.72.

“T20 cricket has evolved over the last two or three years, especially in the IPL. You can see patterns in how teams are winning, and recently, teams that win the Powerplay often go on to win the game. A few years ago, games were usually decided between the 14th and 20th overs. The Powerplay was always important, but now it carries even more weight," KL Rahul said.

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"For me, personally, it’s something I’ve had to adapt to for the team. This season, the messaging from the team management was very clear. They spoke to me before the IPL and wanted me to bat at the top of the order and play with freedom. Teams are aiming for upwards of 60 in that phase. Having that clarity gave me time to think about how to achieve it within my skill set. I’ve tried to go out each game with that intent. You won’t always succeed, but the idea is right. My focus is on maximising the Powerplay, because that’s the demand of the team and of T20 cricket right now,” he said.