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Ambati Rayudu Praises KL Rahul’s Aggressive Batting Shift in IPL 2026

Ambati Rayudu praised KL Rahul's batting approach, noting his improved intent and confidence against bowlers. Rayudu highlighted Rahul's aggressive shot selection against spin, particularly against Ravi Bishnoi. Delhi Capitals chased a record 226 runs to defeat Rajasthan Royals, with Rahul scoring 40-ball 70. Rahul's performance earned him Player of the Match, and he now leads the season's run-scoring charts.

Key Points: Rayudu Praises KL Rahul’s IPL 2026 Batting Intent

  • Rayudu highlights Rahul's improved batting intent
  • Rahul’s aggressive approach against spin bowling
  • DC records 226-run chase, highest in IPL history
  • Rahul named Player of the Match for 40-ball 70
2 min read

"He has always had the game": Ambati Rayudu praises KL Rahul

Ambati Rayudu lauds KL Rahul's aggressive batting approach, citing improved intent against spin as key to his high strike rate in IPL 2026.

"He has always had the game. He can take on any bowler at any time; it is just his mindset. - Ambati Rayudu"

New Delhi, May 2

Former India cricketer Ambati Rayudu has praised the batting approach of KL Rahul, highlighting his improved intent and ability to take on bowlers in the ongoing Indian Premier League 2026 season.

Speaking on ESPNcricinfo Time Out after Delhi Capitals' (DC ) comfortable win over Rajasthan Royals, Rayudu said the Delhi opener Rahul has always possessed the ability to dominate attacks but is now showing greater confidence and intent in his shot selection.

"He [Rahul] has always had the game. He can take on any bowler at any time; it is just his mindset. Against RR, we have seen a very, very good approach to his batting," Rayudu said.

Rayudu further analysed Rahul's approach against spin bowling, particularly referencing his intent against Ravi Bishnoi.

"He went through a couple of shots against Ravi Bishnoi because he was sure that Bishnoi had the pace, and he could just stand in the crease and still go through with the shot. That shot was still not on, a slightly good-length or short-of-a-length ball, which he hit straight for six. That shows that the wicket was good, and also KL's confidence in his batting and a change in the way he generally bats," the former Indian player said.

Rayudu added that Rahul's willingness to take on deliveries he would earlier defend is a key reason behind his improved strike rate this season.

"These are the balls that he generally does not take in, and it is a great sign that he is taking on these lengths and deliveries against spin. That is why we are seeing him play such higher strike-rates in this tournament compared to a few other seasons," Rayudu added.

DC pulled off a record 226-run chase, their highest in IPL history, to defeat RR by seven wickets. A 110-run opening stand between KL Rahul and Pathum Nissanka set up the chase, before Tristan Stubbs and Ashutosh Sharma finished the job with five balls remaining.

Earlier, Riyan Parag (90) and Donovan Ferreira (47*) powered RR to 225/6, while Mitchell Starc picked up three wickets. The win was DC's fourth of the season, placing them sixth on the table, while RR remained fourth.

The veteran batter Rahul played a fantastic knock of 40-ball 70, including six fours and five maximums. Rahul, who is now the highest run getter in the ongoing season, was named Player of the Match for his superb half-century.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

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Sarah B
Interesting to see this shift in Rahul's approach. As an Australian fan, I always rated his class but felt he was too defensive in the middle overs. This new intent is exciting!
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Vikram M
First Rashid, now Bishnoi—Rahul is taking down quality spinners. That six off Bishnoi was pure class. But let's see if he can maintain this form when India plays next. Consistency is key!
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Rohit P
Finally, the KL Rahul we've been waiting for! He's always been talented, but he used to play too many dot balls. Now he's taking calculated risks. Rayudu knows what he's talking about. 🔥
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Michael C
As someone who follows international cricket, this is great to see. Rahul's technique has always been textbook, but the mental shift is what separates good players from great ones. Delhi's chase was brilliant.
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Ananya R
I'm happy for KL, but let's not forget he still has to prove himself in pressure situations for India. IPL form is good, but the real test is wearing blue. Rayudu's praise is well-deserved though. 🏏
K
Karthik V
Rayudu is absolutely right. The difference is intent—Rahul is now attacking balls he used to defend. That six off Bishnoi

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