IPL 2018: Playing for Kings XI Punjab Was the Last in My List - KL Rahul

Published - 12 May 2018, 07:30 PM | Updated - 23 Aug 2024, 12:43 AM

Kings XI Punjab (KXIP) batting mainstay, KL Rahul, recently disclosed that he never expected to don the red and silver jersey of the Mohali-based franchise.

However, Lokesh Rahul kicked off his campaign this season perfectly by scoring the fastest fifty in IPL history. He achieved the feat in 14 deliveries.

Since then, Rahul has been the spine of his side in the batting department, helping his team to chase down distinct targets, single-handedly.

KL Rahul Kings XI Punjab IPL 2018 — KL Rahul says he is enjoying his responsibility at Kings XI Punjab. Image Courtesy: BCCI

???Kings XI Punjab was in the last of the list I had in my mind. I thought I???ll remain in Bangalore or will go to some other club but never thought of being picked by Punjab,??? KL Rahul told India TV in an interaction.

Kings XI, unlike previous seasons, turned out to be a force in the tournament with six wins out of the ten games played.

The Preity Zinta-owned side are strong contenders to book a berth into the playoffs of the ongoing season eleven of the IPL.

Kings XI Punjab Rajasthan Royals — Lokesh Rahul. Photo by: Rahul Gulati /SPORTZPICS for BCCI

I thought I???ll remain in Bangalore: Lokesh Rahul

???But I am happy. We are a strong team and have a nice bonding,??? added the Karnataka batsman.

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Having represented Sunrisers Hyderabad and Royal Challengers Bangalore before, Rahul played his best season thus far in IPL career. He amassed 471 runs at an average over 58.

???I am in a good mind space and have a hunger to score runs. KXIP have showed so much of faith in me, so I have to deliver and win games for them,??? further elucidated the Indian international.

KL Rahul IPL 2018 — KL Rahul says wicket-keeping has helped his batting a lot in IPL 2018. Image Courtesy: BCCI

Furthermore, Rahul scored one of the best knocks in a losing cause this season against Rajasthan Royals (RR). The aggressive batsman went on to score 66% of KXIP???s total.

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