Delhi Capitals have confirmed a major move ahead of IPL 2026, with captain Axar Patel announcing that star batter KL Rahul will open the innings this season. Retained for a hefty ₹14 crore, Rahul is expected to provide explosive starts in the powerplay, building on his reputation as one of the league’s most consistent performers. Patel highlighted Rahul’s match-winning knock of 112* off 65 balls last season as proof of his ability to set the tone for the middle and lower order.
The announcement has already sparked excitement among fans, especially after the franchise released a thumping welcome video for Rahul on March 25. Speculation is now swirling about who will partner him at the top of the order, adding intrigue to Delhi’s batting strategy.
Meanwhile, uncertainty looms over the availability of Mitchell Starc, with his participation dependent on a pending No Objection Certificate (NOC) from Cricket Australia. Patel also voiced his dissatisfaction with the Impact Player rule, noting that it undermines the role of all-rounders like himself who thrive on contributing in multiple facets of the game.
With Rahul’s arrival, Delhi Capitals are aiming to strengthen their batting firepower and push for a strong campaign in IPL 2026. The combination of proven performers and fresh tactical debates sets the stage for a season full of drama, anticipation, and high-octane cricket.
