How Delhi Capitals and Kevin Pietersen Helped Unleash KL Rahul 2.0

Being a player who can bat anywhere in the order, whether it’s as an opener or in the middle order, KL Rahul is undoubtedly one of the most versatile cricketers in the IPL. Known for his ability to adapt to any situation, Rahul has finally rediscovered his rhythm after joining the Delhi Capitals for the 2025 season. Following his release from Lucknow Super Giants, many questioned his future role, but the move to Delhi seems to have reignited the fearless cricketer we saw during his golden run from 2018 to 2020. 

Rahul has already won two consecutive Player of the Match awards this season, one while opening against Chennai Super Kings and the other batting in the middle order versus Royal Challengers Bengaluru. These two contrasting roles show the depth of his skill set and his match awareness. Credit must go to the Delhi Capitals’ management, who gave him the freedom to express himself and play his natural game. Instead of restricting him to a fixed role, they allowed him to read the game situation and respond accordingly. This approach has not only boosted his individual form but also added tremendous flexibility to Delhi’s batting line-up, making them early title contenders.

KL Rahul’s Fiery Start to IPL 2025 Season

KL Rahul has been in sensational form for Delhi Capitals in IPL 2025. In just 3 matches, he has scored 185 runs at an outstanding average of 92.50 and a strike rate of 169.72, making him the leading run-scorer for Delhi so far. His highest score of 93 came against RCB*, showcasing his ability to anchor and accelerate as needed. With 2 fifties in 3 innings, Rahul has looked in complete control, hitting 15 fours and 10 sixes along the way. What stands out is his consistency, having remained not out in one of the three games.

1. KL Rahul vs SRH

KL Rahul’s innings against Sunrisers Hyderabad may have lasted just 5 balls, but his explosive 15-run cameo, including 2 fours and a six, brought back memories of his fearless batting days. With a stunning strike rate of 300.00, Rahul gave fans a short but thrilling teaser of the vintage KL they adored during his peak IPL seasons, hinting that the best may still be yet to come this year.

2. KL Rahul vs CSK

KL Rahul delivered one of his finest knocks of IPL 2025 against CSK, scoring a commanding 77 off 51 balls with 6 fours and 3 sixes. His well-paced innings anchored Delhi Capitals to a strong total of 183/6. Rahul’s performance stood out as he took charge early, countered CSK’s bowlers, and made his presence felt, playing a crucial role in DC’s eventual 25-run victory at Chepauk and even bagged his first Man of the Match for the Delhi Capitals team in the IPL 2025 season.

3. KL Rahul vs RCB

KL Rahul began his innings a bit scratchily against RCB, but quickly settled into rhythm, playing the anchor’s role with poise. His unbeaten 93 off 53 balls, studded with 7 fours and 6 sixes, ensured a steady chase after early setbacks. Holding firm at one end, Rahul guided Delhi Capitals to a comfortable win and claimed his second consecutive Player of the Match award in IPL 2025.

What Changed for KL Rahul at Delhi Capitals?

After playing for the Lucknow Super Giants for three seasons, KL Rahul often found himself under scrutiny. Many critics blamed his slow strike rate and lack of impactful innings for LSG’s struggles in crucial games. But things have taken a sharp turn since his move to Delhi Capitals in IPL 2025. Under the new setup, Rahul looks like a completely transformed batter. One of the biggest influences behind this change seems to be the presence of Kevin Pietersen in the DC support staff, who has been seen mentoring Rahul in the nets, urging him to play freely and back his instincts. 

And Rahul didn’t disappoint as in the match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru at his home ground, M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, the Delhi wicketkeeper-batter smashed an unbeaten 93 off just 53 balls. What made the knock special wasn’t just the numbers, but the intent. Despite Delhi being in trouble at 58/4, he stayed calm, played fearless cricket, and stitched a match-winning 111-run partnership with Tristan Stubbs.

After sealing the win with a six, Rahul’s passionate celebration said it all. He slammed his bat on the turf and pointed to the ground as if to say, “This is my home”. Free from captaincy pressure and backed by his team, KL Rahul is finally showing his best self in DC colors and bagging two Player of the Match Awards in the three games so far for him.