KL Rahul’s latest T20 performance has reignited discussions about his batting approach. The opener’s unbeaten 112 from 65 deliveries for Delhi Capitals against Gujarat Titans raised eyebrows – not just for his impressive personal score but also for the broader implications for the team’s outcome.
Despite a sluggish start on Sunday, Rahul guided his side to a competitive total of nearly 200, only for B Sai Sudharsan and Shubman Gill to surpass the target comfortably, leading GT into the playoffs.
Rahul’s century came at a strike rate of 172.30, contrasting with his overall IPL 2025 rate of 148.04, his best since 2018. Yet, criticism persists. Analyst Tom Moody weighed in on ESPNcricinfo’s Time Out, noting, “I always find the criticism around KL Rahul quite extraordinary. He’s a lot better player than a lot of people give him credit for.”
For Moody, the focus should be on team dynamics, highlighting that successful T20 teams rely on contributions from all players. “When you’ve got someone in there that’s anchoring, that’s building the total, your role when you come in is to impact the game,” he explained.
Delhi Capitals had amassed 81 for 1 after ten overs, with Rahul on 56. However, as the innings progressed, he faced only six balls between the 15th and 18th overs. Moody suggested this interruption affected Rahul’s momentum. “The team had the opportunity to get it to 220. This is not an individual sport. This is a team sport,” he said, emphasising the importance of cohesive play.
Moody further elaborated on the need for communication within the team, pointing to moments of inactivity in the middle overs. “We need to recognise KL Rahul faced only six balls in four overs, causing him to lose rhythm,” he concluded.
The debate over Rahul’s role reveals broader questions about strategy and teamwork in T20 cricket, underscoring that success depends not only on individual brilliance but also on collective efforts.
