KL Rahul, the experienced wicketkeeper-batter from Delhi Capitals, is on the verge of breaking Virat Kohli’s long-standing record for the fastest Indian to reach 8,000 runs in T20 cricket. Rahul needs just 33 more runs to hit this milestone and aims to achieve it in his 214th T20 innings, beating Virat’s record of 243 innings. This record-breaking opportunity comes during Delhi Capitals’ crucial do-or-die match against Gujarat Titans at home on Sunday. At 33 years old, Rahul is poised to set a new benchmark in Indian T20 cricket history.
KL Rahul: Key Match Insights and Player Performances
KL Rahul, However, Gujarat Titans could disrupt Rahul’s plans by pitting him against their top spinner, Rashid Khan. Unlike other bowlers, the Afghan spinner has kept Rahul in check, conceding only 40 runs off 47 balls while taking his wicket three times.
KL Rahul, Meanwhile, Delhi Capitals captain Axar Patel has been a persistent threat to spin bowlers during the 18th edition of the IPL. The left-hander boasts a striking rate of 192.85 against spin, and among those scoring at least 100 runs off spin, only West Indies’ power-hitter Nicholas Pooran has a higher strike rate of 264.
In the crucial upcoming match that will decide Delhi Capitals’ playoff fate, the hosts plan to exploit Gujarat Titans’ inexperienced middle order. KL Rahul, Gujarat’s top three batsmen — Shubman Gill, Sai Sudharsan, and Jos Buttler — have faced an average of 88 balls per innings collectively. KL Rahul, In contrast, their batters from positions four to eleven have faced just 28 balls on average per innings. This lack of experience beyond the top three could work to Delhi’s advantage at the high-scoring Arun Jaitley Stadium.