KL Rahul Batting Position For IPL 2026 Altered As Former India Star Makes Bold Remark

KL Rahul [Source: AFP]

Former Indian cricketer Mohammed Kaif has shared his opinion on KL Rahul’s batting position ahead of IPL 2026. The Delhi Capitals batter has played in several positions over the years. However, Kaif believes the team should use him only as an opener in the upcoming season. 

With the 19th edition of the IPL approaching in a few weeks, discussions around team strategies and player roles have already started.

KL Rahul versatility creates challenges

Over the years, KL Rahul has played in multiple batting positions depending on the needs of the team. Therefore, teams often rely on his ability to adapt to different situations. This flexibility makes him an important player. At the same time, constant changes in the batting order can create challenges for both the player and the team.

A similar situation occurred during the previous IPL season when Delhi Capitals frequently changed their batting order. Players were moved to different positions during the tournament in order to fix batting issues.

 As a result, the lineup lacked stability in several matches. KL Rahul still managed to adjust his game and deliver decent performances. Meanwhile, other batters in the lineup struggled to settle into fixed roles.

KL Rahul performance in IPL 2025

Despite the changes around him, Rahul delivered an impressive performance in IPL 2025. The star batter scored 539 runs in 13 innings during the season. In addition, he maintained a strong strike rate of 149.72 along with an average of 53.90. 

Notably, KL Rahul’s record as an opener during the season was particularly impressive. He opened the innings in four matches and scored 235 runs in those games. His strike rate during those innings was an excellent 164.34. 

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Mohammed Kaif supports KL Rahul as an opener

Mohammed Kaif believes that Delhi Capitals should avoid unnecessary confusion about Rahul’s batting role. 

“I think he will open, and he should open only. He has a fabulous record as an opener. If we talk about the last three or four years, his graph, when it comes to strike rate, has gone up a lot. I feel they shouldn’t get confused,” Kaif said on his YouTube channel.

Kaif also pointed out that Rahul performs best when he is allowed to play his natural game at the top of the order. 

“The problem is that they ask KL Rahul to bat at No. 4 or do the finishing role. He should go and play his game, and as an opener. They have David Miller and Tristan Stubbs as well this time. You open, and back your shots and game. 

A massive change was seen in his batting last year. He improved his game in the power play, and he alone won a few matches,” Kaif observed.

Kaif also praised Delhi Capitals for signing David Miller ahead of the upcoming season.

“The biggest thing is David Miller. He will bat at No. 5 or No. 6 on that Delhi pitch, and he is in great form. So they have done two things. They have filled their squad with a lot of openers and brought in Miller. 

Spinners were their strength from earlier, and they have a few fast bowlers as well. It’s looking like a more balanced team compared to last year,” Kaif observed.

Delhi Capitals begin IPL 2026 campaign

Meanwhile, Delhi Capitals will begin their IPL 2026 campaign against LSG at the Ekana Stadium on April 1. After that match, they will return to Delhi to face Mumbai Indians at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on April 4.

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