Chandigarh 19 march 2025 (Punjab Khabarnama Bureau): KL Rahul is set to make a fresh start at the IPL as he will link up with Delhi Capitals for the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL). After playing a key role in India’s victorious 2025 Champions Trophy campaign, Rahul finds himself in unfamiliar territory, moving away from his long-standing role as a captain – and also as an opener – in the IPL.
The Delhi-based franchise secured Rahul for INR 14 crore in the IPL 2025 mega auction, following his release from Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). His three-year stint with LSG was marked by inconsistent performances and scrutiny over his strike rate. According to a report from Times of India, DC have opted for a different approach, reportedly slotting the 32-year-old into a middle-order role.
According to the report, DC’s batting lineup will feature Jake Fraser-McGurk, Faf du Plessis, and Abhishek Porel at the top, while Rahul will be deployed lower down to provide stability and experience.
The decision, it seems, was heavily influenced by Harry Brook’s withdrawal from the tournament, leaving DC in need of a solid presence in the middle order.
“After Harry Brook’s decision to withdraw from the league, DC wanted a right-handed batter in the middle order, and Rahul fits the bill,” the report stated.
Rahul in a new role
This season marks the first time since 2019 that Rahul will not be leading an IPL franchise. After captaining Punjab Kings (PBKS) in 2020 and 2021, followed by a three-year stint as LSG’s skipper, he now finds himself without a leadership role at DC.
Summary: In a strategic move, KL Rahul is forced out of the IPL opening role at Delhi Capitals, adjusting to a new batting position.