Delhi Capitals are experimenting with a new opening pair in IPL 2026. KL Rahul has been moved to the opening position after playing different roles last season.
However, the start has not gone as planned. Rahul scored 0 in the first match and followed it with just 1 run in the second game. His opening partner Pathum Nissanka, who recently made his IPL debut, has also had mixed results.
DC’s top order has struggled to provide strong starts, which has increased pressure on the middle and lower order.
Delhi Capitals top-order performance so far
| Player | Position | Match 1 | Match 2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| KL Rahul | Opener | 0 | 1 |
| Pathum Nissanka | Opener | 1 | 44 |
| Nitish Rana | No.3 | 15 | 0 |
Because of these struggles, the team has often relied on middle-order contributions. Sameer Rizvi has played useful innings in both matches, but Delhi Capitals cannot depend on late recoveries every time.
Why KL Rahul’s Role Is Important
Among the top three batters, KL Rahul is the most experienced player. The team expects him to provide stability and build a strong foundation for the innings.
If Rahul manages to stay at the crease longer and score quickly, it will reduce pressure on the rest of the batting lineup.
Delhi Capitals need Rahul to guide the innings and help the team move past this early-season struggle.
Rahul Must Bring Back His Aggressive Style
KL Rahul has shown strong batting performances in the IPL in the past. Although IPL 2025 was not considered his best season, he still delivered impressive numbers.
In IPL 2025, Rahul scored 539 runs with an average of 53.90 and a strike rate of 149.72. This strike rate was the second-highest of his IPL career.
His most aggressive season came in 2018 when he had a strike rate of 158.41 while playing for Punjab Kings.
Also See : IPL 2026: Three Big Reasons Behind RCB’s Strong Start This Season
Rahul IPL 2025 performance
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Runs | 539 |
| Average | 53.90 |
| Strike Rate | 149.72 |
Rahul also played several big innings during that season, including:
| Match | Score |
|---|---|
| vs Gujarat Titans | 112* |
| vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru | 93* |
| vs Lucknow Super Giants | 57* |
These innings showed his ability to control the game and finish matches strongly.
Rahul’s Record as an IPL Opener
KL Rahul has built a strong reputation as an opener in the IPL. His numbers at the top of the order are among the best in the tournament.
KL Rahul opening statistics in IPL
| Opening Role | Runs |
|---|---|
| Batting at No.1 | 3350 |
| Batting at No.2 | 1069 |
| Total IPL runs | 8126 |
These numbers highlight how effective Rahul can be when he plays at the top of the order.
What Delhi Capitals Need Going Forward
Delhi Capitals have managed to win two matches, but their batting still needs improvement. The upcoming match against Gujarat Titans will be another big test for the team.
To succeed, DC need their top order to provide stronger starts. KL Rahul’s experience and calm approach could be key in guiding the team through difficult moments.
If Rahul returns to his confident and aggressive batting style, it could solve many of the problems Delhi Capitals are currently facing at the top.
For now, all eyes will be on Rahul in the next match as fans wait to see if he can lead Delhi Capitals’ batting revival in IPL 2026.
