KL Rahul To Bat In Middle Order For Delhi Capitals In IPL 2025: Reports

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 is set to bring exciting changes, and one of the biggest developments is KL Rahul’s role at Delhi Capitals (DC). The experienced batter, known for his consistency at the top, will now take on a middle-order role for the franchise.

According to reports, Faf du Plessis and Jake Fraser McGurk are likely to open the innings, with KL Rahul shifting to the middle order to provide stability. With his proven ability in this position in ODIs and Test cricket, DC is hopeful that he will deliver match-winning performances in IPL 2025.

KL Rahul’s IPL Batting Record & Role Shift

KL Rahul has predominantly played as an opener in IPL, with 99 out of 123 innings at the top of the order. His stats as an opener are impressive, but concerns over his strike rate in T20 cricket have led to discussions about shifting him lower in the batting lineup. Delhi Capitals has made this bold move, banking on his ability to anchor innings and accelerate when needed.

Reasons Behind KL Rahul’s Middle-Order Role

1. Success in the Middle Order in International Cricket

KL Rahul has showcased his versatility in international cricket. His recent Champions Trophy performances at No.6 demonstrated his ability to control innings under pressure and play match-winning knocks. This success has likely influenced DC’s decision to position him in the middle order for IPL 2025.

2. Absence of Harry Brook

Delhi Capitals had to rework their batting strategy due to the absence of Harry Brook. With Brook missing, they needed an experienced batter to stabilize the middle order, making KL Rahul the ideal choice.

3. Strengthening the Opening Combination

With Faf du Plessis and Jake Fraser McGurk expected to open, DC has a solid aggressive opening pair. This setup allows Rahul to play a crucial role in the middle overs, ensuring balance in the lineup.

4. Strike Rate and Finishing Ability

While Rahul’s T20 strike rate as an opener has been questioned, he has the ability to build innings and accelerate when needed. In the middle order, he can rotate the strike and finish games efficiently.

KL Rahul’s Salary and Expectations at DC

• Purchased by Delhi Capitals for: ₹14 crore
• IPL Career Runs: 4,163 runs in 118 matches
• IPL Career Strike Rate: 134.68
• Highest IPL Score: 132*
• Role in DC: Middle-order batter

KL Rahul, after leaving Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), was acquired by Delhi Capitals for ₹14 crore. While there were initial rumors about him leading DC, the franchise has confirmed that Axar Patel will be the captain for IPL 2025.

What This Means for Delhi Capitals

The decision to move KL Rahul to the middle order can have a significant impact on DC’s batting strategy:

✅ More flexibility in batting order – With du Plessis and McGurk opening, Rahul can control the innings from No.4 or No.5.
✅ More depth in batting – DC now has an experienced batter anchoring the middle overs and supporting finishers.
✅ More experience in crucial situations – Rahul’s ability to bat under pressure will help DC in tight chases and difficult conditions.

KL Rahul’s Role in Previous IPL Seasons

Lucknow Super Giants (2022-2024)

KL Rahul played a crucial role as LSG’s captain and opener, scoring 1,234 runs in three seasons. However, concerns over his strike rate and inability to finish games led to his release.

Punjab Kings (2018-2021)

At PBKS, Rahul established himself as a consistent top-order batter, even winning the Orange Cap in 2020 with 670 runs. However, Punjab struggled to win key matches under his leadership.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru & Sunrisers Hyderabad (2013-2017)

Rahul played as a young top-order batter, showing glimpses of his potential. His breakthrough came with RCB in 2016, scoring 397 runs in 14 matches.

What Experts Say About KL Rahul’s New Role

Cricket analysts have mixed opinions on Rahul’s shift to the middle order:

🏏 Sunil Gavaskar: “Rahul’s ability to control innings and play under pressure makes him a smart choice for No.4 or No.5.”
🏏 Aakash Chopra: “If KL adapts well, this move could be a game-changer for Delhi Capitals.”
🏏 Kevin Pietersen: “He needs to be more aggressive in this role. If he does that, he can be a match-winner.”