KL Rahul’s Eventful 2025: New Beginnings and Challenges
Transition in the Indian Premier League
In a significant move during the 2025 Indian Premier League (IPL) season, KL Rahul parted ways with the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). After leading the team for three seasons, Rahul was released ahead of the 2025 IPL Mega Auction. The Delhi Capitals acquired him for ₹14 crores, marking a new chapter in his IPL career. This transition came after LSG appointed Rishabh Pant as their new captain, following Rahul’s departure.
International Career Highlights
On the international front, Rahul faced a mix of challenges and successes. He was excluded from India’s squad for the 2024 T20 World Cup but made a notable comeback in the ODI series against Sri Lanka. Despite a modest performance, scoring 31 and 0 in the first two matches, he was dropped for the final ODI, which India lost, marking their first bilateral series defeat to Sri Lanka since 1997. Rahul’s resilience shone through during the Test series against Bangladesh in September 2024, where he contributed a swift 68 off 62 balls in the rain-affected second Test, aiding India to secure victory. However, a subsequent series against New Zealand saw him struggle, leading to his omission from the playing XI after scoring 0 and 12 in the first Test. Despite these setbacks, Rahul remained a key figure in India’s Test squad for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy and was also selected for the ODI series against England and the Champions Trophy 2025.
Recent Performances
In the opening match of the Champions Trophy 2025 against Bangladesh, Rahul played a crucial role. He remained unbeaten with a composed 41 runs, finishing the chase in style by hitting a six. This performance not only showcased his batting prowess but also earned him the ‘Best Fielder of the Match’ medal for his exceptional wicket-keeping skills.
Looking Ahead
As 2025 progresses, KL Rahul’s journey reflects a blend of transitions and perseverance. His move to the Delhi Capitals offers a fresh platform to showcase his leadership and batting prowess in the IPL. Concurrently, his ongoing commitment to the national team underscores his determination to overcome challenges and contribute significantly to Indian cricket.