IPL 2026: KL Rahul is set to return to the opening slot for Delhi Capitals in the 2026 Indian Premier League season, as the franchise looks to bring stability to its batting order after a mixed campaign last year. Rahul, who previously captained Punjab Kings and Lucknow Super Giants, joined Delhi Capitals without leadership duties and focused on his role as a batter and wicketkeeper.

During the 2025 season, Delhi Capitals experimented with their batting lineup, initially opening with Jake Fraser-McGurk and Faf du Plessis while pushing Rahul into the middle order. Rahul adapted to the role but was later moved back to the top after Fraser-McGurk struggled for runs and du Plessis suffered an injury.

Despite the changes, Rahul scored 539 runs in 13 matches at a strike rate of 149.72. However, the frequent reshuffling disrupted the team’s overall balance, with the batting unit failing to find consistency as the side missed out on the playoffs.

According to the media reports, Delhi Capitals have now decided to fix Rahul’s position at the top of the order for the upcoming season.

Rahul’s IPL record supports the move. The right-hander has scored 4,418 runs in 103 matches, including five centuries and 36 half-centuries, at a strike rate of 138.14.

A stable opening role could also be crucial for Rahul’s ambitions of returning to India’s T20I setup, having fallen out of favour in the shortest format despite remaining a key player in ODIs and Tests.

A strong IPL 2026 campaign could strengthen his case for selection ahead of upcoming international assignments.