KKN Gurugram Desk | Delhi Capitals’ wicketkeeper-batter KL Rahul played a sensational knock of 77 runs off 51 balls against Chennai Super Kings, guiding his team to a crucial 25-run victory. After the match, Rahul shared his frustration and emotional reaction to the frequent changes in his batting position, something he has dealt with in both IPL and international cricket.
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???? Rahul Returns to Opening Role and Delivers a Statement
With regular opener Faf du Plessis ruled out due to injury, KL Rahul was asked to open the innings alongside Jake Fraser-McGurk. While Fraser-McGurk was dismissed for a duck, Rahul anchored the innings with a composed and commanding performance that included 6 fours and 3 sixes, showcasing his class and adaptability at the top.
“I was preparing to play as a top-order batter before IPL 2025 began,” Rahul said in the post-match presentation. “But the coach asked me to bat at No. 4. Today, I got the chance to open due to Faf’s absence, and I was happy to grab it.”
???? Mental Challenges of Changing Batting Positions
KL Rahul highlighted the mental fatigue caused by constantly shuffling up and down the batting order.
“It’s something I’ve gotten used to. Moving between different batting roles isn’t easy. I enjoy having a fixed role where I know how to approach the innings. Getting into the rhythm takes time, especially if you’re not used to starting in a particular phase,” he admitted.
He also acknowledged a rough patch in the middle overs, despite a strong start.
“I began well but had a slight dip in the middle. I’m trying to avoid wasting those two or three crucial balls that can change the momentum,” he added.
???? Key Partnerships: Porel and Axar Patel’s Impact
Rahul also praised teammates Abhishek Porel and Axar Patel, who helped stabilize the innings and push Delhi Capitals past the 180-mark.
“Abhishek’s quick 20-25 runs were crucial in building the innings. I’ve enjoyed batting with him and Axar. Their contributions laid the platform,” Rahul noted.
???? Battling the Heat and Fatigue
The match, held in hot and humid Chennai conditions, took a physical toll on Rahul.
“The heat was exhausting. Toward the end, I was tired. That did affect my ability to finish strongly. But overall, I’m glad I could stay till the final overs,” he said.???? Player of the Match: A Reward for Resilience
KL Rahul was named Player of the Match for his outstanding 77-run innings that helped Delhi post a competitive total of 183/6.
CSK, in response, was restricted to 158 runs, giving Delhi a comfortable 25-run win — their first win at Chepauk since 2010.
???? Delhi Capitals: Unbeaten and on Top
This win takes Delhi Capitals to the top of the IPL 2025 points table, making them the only unbeaten team so far this season. Their clinical performances in all departments have made them one of the tournament’s strongest contenders.
???? Rahul’s Return Post Paternity Break
Interestingly, KL Rahul had missed DC’s opening match this season due to paternity leave, as he recently became a father. He returned in the second match against Sunrisers Hyderabad, where he scored a modest 15 runs. However, his 77-run blitz against CSK has sent a strong message to selectors and fans alike.
With momentum on his side, Delhi might now continue using him as an opener, especially in the absence of Faf du Plessis.
???? Match Summary: CSK vs DC – IPL 2025
| Key Highlights | Details |
|---|---|
| Match | CSK vs DC |
| Venue | Chepauk, Chennai |
| KL Rahul’s Score | 77 (51 balls), 6 fours, 3 sixes |
| Player of the Match | KL Rahul |
| DC Score | 183/6 |
| CSK Score | 158 all out |
| Result | Delhi Capitals won by 25 runs |
| DC’s Position in Points Table | 1st (Unbeaten so far) |
???? What This Means for Delhi & KL Rahul
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KL Rahul’s form at the top adds flexibility and depth to the Delhi Capitals’ batting.
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His ability to adapt and lead in the absence of key players speaks volumes about his experience.
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With his return to form and emotional transparency, fans can expect him to be a key figure in DC’s playoff push
As Delhi Capitals head into their next fixture, KL Rahul is likely to retain his opening role, especially if Faf remains unavailable. His form and confidence are peaking at the right time, and his leadership experience could be crucial for DC in tight situations.
The upcoming matches will test whether this momentum can be sustained and if Rahul can continue to rise as a dependable figure in Delhi’s top order.
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