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KL Rahul’s masterclass helped Delhi Capitals (DC) regain the winning streak. By defeating Rajasthan Royals (RR) at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on 17 May, DC claimed their first win after going winless in 5 consecutive matches. With this win, DC remains in the race for playoff qualification.
A drop catch from Yash Punj early in the second innings spoiled RR’s plans for the match. After getting a lease of life, KL Rahul scored a half-century to seal the win. After the match, the DC opener spoke about his batting and the importance of the much-needed win.
KL Rahul played a brilliant innings against RR
Rahul scored 56 off 42 as DC were chasing a tough target of 194 runs on their home ground. The knock was a bit slow, but it was necessary, as the batsman remained strong on the track to stabilize the run chase.
As he stayed on the track, his opening partner Abhishek Porel got license to play some big shots. Porel scored 51 runs in 31 balls with the help of seven fours and one six. KL Rahul’s innings of 56 runs was adorned with one four and three sixes.
Rahul is still hopeful about the playoffs
DC captain Axar Patel also played his role well with the bat and scored unbeaten 34 runs in 18 balls. Ashutosh Sharma’s late cameo, 18 not out from 5 balls, sealed the victory for Delhi Capitals.
“It feels a bit more special because I scored 500 runs last season too, but this year I was aiming to achieve something more, which was to improve my strike rate and meet the modern demands of T20 cricket.”
“So yes, I’m quite happy that I could do that. But if we had got a few more wins, it would have felt even more special,” KL Rahul told broadcasters after the match, pointing to the team’s position on a thin rope.
“We still have an outside chance, so we’re hoping to win the next game, and maybe some other teams can help us too.. Yes, it’s been a journey. I still don’t think I’ve completely cracked it. The game is all about trial and error, experimentation and being prepared for uncomfortable situations,” he added to explain the scenario.
Star batsman opens up about his batting role for Delhi Capitals in IPL 2026
The veteran batsman said that despite being a season campaigner, his focus remains on adapting to the situation. KL Rahul revealed that the Delhi Capitals coach and captain had asked him to maintain a certain strike rate to dominate the powerplay and the opposition bowlers.
“I have always tried to adapt to the demands of the game and try to do what the team asks of me. This season, the coach and captain had a very clear message before the tournament – they wanted me to play at a certain strike rate, dominate the power play and dominate the bowling. So I tried to adapt my game to that and did that for the team,” he said.
Read More: DC Qualification Scenario IPL 2026: Can DC still reach the playoffs after a win against RR?