'Srike rate was a big talking point': KL Rahul fires shots at BCCI selectors

KL Rahul has finally turned the noise into a powerful answer. After years of criticism around his strike rate in the shorter format of the game, KL Rahul has come back stronger in the ongoing IPL 2026.

The Karnataka batter is now leading the IPL 2026 batting chart with explosive performances for the Delhi Capitals (DC). His stunning knock against the Rajasthan Royals has not only helped his team to make a strong comeback this season but also sent a strong signal to the selectors.

KL Rahul’s explosive comeback shocks critics in IPL 2026

KL Rahul played a blistering knock of 75 runs off 40 balls, laced with six boundaries and five sixes, helping Delhi Capitals to chase down the 226-run target with five balls to spare and 7 wickets in hand. His runs came at a stunning strike rate of nearly 188 in Jaipur.

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Currently, Rahul is the current Orange Cap holder, having amassed 433 runs in 9 matches for the Delhi Capitals at an average of nearly 55 and a career-high strike rate of 185.84 in this IPL season.

The timing could not have been more perfect, as he has lost his place in India’s T20I setup because selectors and coaches felt his scoring rate was too slow for the modern game. He last played a T20I for India in 2022. But Rahul has now completely changed the story, and his bat is doing all the talking.

KL Rahul sends strong 'strike rate' message to selectors after Jaipur heroics

After being adjudged Player of the Match, Rahul has openly admitted that his strike rate was the most satisfying thing for him this season, as it was the biggest question mark over his game for years. But the right-hander has worked hard to adapt to modern T20 demands, and he is now delivering blistering performances in the ongoing IPL 2026.

Following his transformation, Rahul sent a loud and clear message to Indian selectors, especially chairman Ajit Agarkar, by saying that he is doing what modern T20 cricket requires.

KL Rahul said at the post-match presentation: “The strike rate. I think it was a big talking point for a few years. That is something I have really worked on. I'm happy that I've worked on that and that I'm doing what is required for the team, first and foremost, and doing what modern T20 cricket requires. Yeah, that's something that's pleasing for me.”

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Rahul inspires DC to bounce back after painful close losses

He was happy to contribute to DC’s win over the Rajasthan Royals on May 1. Before making a comeback in Jaipur, the Delhi team had faced close defeats and missed key moments in matches, but they have worked hard to fix those small mistakes and focused on improving execution during crucial stages of the game. Rahul shared that the biggest change has been the mindset.

Rahul added, “This competition and T20 cricket don't allow you a second chance. So, it was important that we take our chances and, when we're ahead, really press hard and finish the game, which we weren't doing. I'm really happy that we could get this win, and we look forward to stringing a few more together; that will give us more confidence.”

In the end, a win is all that matters 😌

What a night for KL Rahul, getting the Orange Cap as well as the points for his team 🫡#TATAIPL | #KhelBindaas | #RRvDC | @delhicapitals pic.twitter.com/h5OtsjDCSg

— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) May 1, 2026