KL Rahul's Availability for IPL Opener Uncertain as He Joins Delhi Capitals
The uncertainty surrounding Indian batter KL Rahul's availability for the Indian Premier League (IPL) opening clash for Delhi Capitals (DC) against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) continues. While Rahul has joined the team in Visakhapatnam ahead of the match, DC skipper Axar Patel confirmed that there is no confirmation on whether he will play the first game.
DC will kickstart their IPL campaign against LSG at Visakhapatnam on Monday. The clash holds significance as two of India's biggest stars, DC's KL Rahul and LSG skipper Rishabh Pant, will be squaring off against their former teams.
Speaking ahead of the match, Axar said during a press conference, "Obviously, he joined the team. We do not know yet [if he will play]. Right now we do not know if he is available or not."
Notably, KL is awaiting the birth of his first child with his wife and Bollywood actress Athiya Shetty. They announced Athiya's pregnancy in November 2024.
KL Rahul's Journey to Delhi Capitals
After spending three seasons as Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) skipper, Rahul parted ways with the franchise and enrolled his name for the mega auction last year. Following a fierce bidding war between Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), Delhi Capitals (DC) entered the action and acquired Rahul for a hefty sum of Rs 14 crore.
KL Rahul's Recent Form and IPL Record
KL will be heading into the IPL 2024 with plenty of positive momentum on his side, having played a crucial role in India's ICC Champions Trophy 2025 win. He played a crucial role in the middle order, scoring a valuable 34 in 33 balls in a crunch situation during the final against New Zealand.
The 12th-highest run-getter in IPL history, KL has scored 4,683 runs at an average of 45.46, with a strike rate of 134.60 in 132 matches and 123 innings. He has made four centuries and 37 fifties, with a best score of 132. Having played for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), Punjab Kings (PBKS) and LSG so far, he is yet to win the IPL trophy.
8 Comments
KittyKat
KL's focus seems to be elsewhere right now. It wouldn't be fair on the team if he's not fully committed.
Loubianka
The team needs stability right now, not uncertainty. Playing someone confirmed will boost team morale.
BuggaBoom
This is not ideal preparation for such a big tournament. DC should play it safe and go with someone else.
KittyKat
Let's not underestimate his mental strength. He can handle fatherhood and cricket simultaneously. He's a true professional.
Katchuka
This match has all the ingredients for a classic encounter. The fans deserve to see the best players on the field, including KL Rahul!
Raphael
If he's fit enough to travel and join the team, then he's fit enough to play. Don't underestimate this champion!
Leonardo
Let's trust the team management's decision. They know what's best for the team, and that includes KL Rahul.
Michelangelo
We need KL's explosive batting at the top order. He can single-handedly change the course of the game.