KL Rahul has been exceptional at the top of the order for Delhi Capitals in the TATA IPL 2026, and his form will be key if they are to finish in the top four. Speaking on JioStar’s ‘Superstars’, Rahul shared his thoughts on his new opening partner Pathum Nissanka, the clarity in his role, and life after becoming a father.
Speaking on JioStar’s ‘Superstars’, KL Rahul weighed in on adapting to the aggressive style at the top of the order:
“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. 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.”
On opening the batting alongside Pathum Nissanka:
“It’s been fun. There isn’t a lot of talk in the middle. We’ve had one or two good partnerships, getting off to a flying start. That’s what the team wants, around 60 in the Powerplay. Even a 25-30 run contribution in the first few overs sets the tone for the innings. The conversations between Pathum and me are mostly about playing good cricketing shots while maintaining an aggressive mindset. I’ve had many opening partners over the years, so it’s always enjoyable playing with different players. You learn a lot about the game and about each other. Most of the discussions happen off the field. At training, we talk about the shots we can play against different bowlers, what our options are if a spinner starts in the Powerplay, and how to stay clear in our approach. We try to challenge each other in training, and once we’re in out the middle, it’s about staying relaxed and enjoying the competition.”
On breaking his image of being a Test player:
“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. 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.”
On teams he has enjoyed watching in the TATA IPL 2026:
“Punjab has played exceptional cricket. They look like they have all their boxes ticked. Shreyas has led them really well, and it’s not a one-off. They did the same thing last year, and to continue from there and up their game by 5-10 per cent is great to watch. RCB are playing some really good cricket as well. Rajasthan, again, what I said about Bhuvi and Josh Hazlewood, you see the same with Jofra and Nandre Burger, who are quick, but also guys who play Test cricket. They are able to put the ball in the right areas, get it to move, and ask questions of high-quality batters. I’ve enjoyed watching that.”
On fatherhood and how it has helped in his game:
“Fatherhood has been the most beautiful thing for me. I always felt I had calmness and happiness in my life, but I was so wrong. You don’t truly know happiness, peace or joy until you hold your baby. This is the most beautiful phase of my life, and I’m enjoying every bit of it. It’s hard leaving her behind. I thought it would get easier as she grows up, but I was wrong; it’s only getting harder now that she’s running and trying to talk. She’s travelled for a few games, and ideally, I’d love to play, come back to my daughter, spend time with her, and then go out again. But that’s not always possible. At the same time, it makes coming back even more special. When I see her smile, when she gives me a hug and a kiss, everything is forgotten, all my injuries, pain and worries. That has helped my cricket as well over the last year. I don’t overthink the game anymore, which has made it exciting again. When I’m out there for those 4-5 hours, I’m completely switched on, and I just go out, enjoy the game and try to do my best.”
Watch Superstars Ft. KL Rahul, LIVE on JioHotstar and Star Sports Network. Catch Delhi Capitals in action against Chennai Super Kings in today’s ‘Revenge Week’ fixture, 7:30 PM onwards
