Former India player Mohammad Kaif believes KL Rahul should bat at the top of the order for Delhi Capitals (DC) in IPL 2026. He noted that the wicketkeeper-batter has an excellent record as an opener and has improved his strike rate.
Despite moving across different batting positions, Rahul finished as the highest run-scorer for the franchise in IPL 2025. He amassed 539 runs in 13 innings at an average of 53.90 and a strike rate of 149.72.
During a recent television discussion, Kaif was asked whether KL Rahul can return to the opening slot. He emphasized that the team management should avoid overcomplicating his role, adding that pushing him down the order restricts his stroke play.
"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 strike rate has improved a lot. I feel they shouldn't get confused," he said.
"The problem is that they ask KL Rahul to bat at No. 4 or play a finishing role. He should go and play his game as an opener. They have Miller and Stubbs as well this time. You open and back your shots. A massive change was seen in his batting last year. He improved in the powerplay and won matches on his own," Kaif added.
Delhi Capitals Look More Balanced Ahead of IPL 2026 - Mohammad Kaif
Mohammad Kaif said that Delhi Capitals look more balanced heading into the new season. The addition of David Miller strengthens the middle order. The franchise traded Nitish Rana and brought in the South African veteran along with new top-order options.
"The problem last time was their openers. Sometimes KL Rahul opened, sometimes Karun Nair, and sometimes Abishek Porel. You have brought in Ben Duckett, Pathum Nissanka, and Prithvi Shaw. Opening was the issue, and they have added several options."
"The biggest addition is David Miller. He will bat at No. 5 or No. 6 on the Delhi pitch, and he is in great form. It looks like a more balanced team compared to last year," he said.
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