KL Rahul has spoken about how he changed his game over the years, moving from being seen as a red-ball specialist to becoming an important player in white-ball cricket. He said this journey, especially in T20s, is something he is very proud of.
India's KL Rahul (Photo: IANS/Raj Kumar)
KL Rahul has spoken about how he changed his game over the years, moving from being seen as a red-ball specialist to becoming an important player in white-ball cricket. He said this journey, especially in T20s, is something he is very proud of.
Now a key player for Delhi Capitals in the Indian Premier League 2026 season, Rahul admitted that things were very different at the start of his career. Back then, he was not considered a natural fit for T20 cricket.
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“10 years ago, I would have given anything to be part of a T20 team. I was never rated as a T20 player or even considered a good white-ball player; I was branded a Test player,” Rahul told JioStar’s ‘Superstars’.
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“So, to break out of that mould, develop my white-ball game and come this far is something I’m really proud of,” he added.
Rahul said the journey has had its ups and downs, including times when he didn’t perform as well as he wanted. But he takes pride in always putting in the effort and preparing well.
“Along the way, I’ve made mistakes, and there are things I could have done better. But, what I’m proud of is that I’ve given my absolute best every time I’ve played and prepared as well as I could to give myself the best chance to succeed,” he said.
He also spoke about how he deals with success and failure, saying it is important to stay balanced and enjoy the process. “That’s sport; things won’t always go your way. You have to take it in your stride and enjoy the journey. I’ve always tried to stay balanced, whether I win or lose,” he stated.
The Karnataka batter also shared how becoming a father has added a new dimension to his life and mindset, both on and off the field.
“Fatherhood has been the most beautiful thing for me. I always felt I had calmness and happiness in my life, but I was so wrong. You don’t truly know happiness, peace or joy until you hold your baby,” he said.
The Delhi Capitals batter, who has been one of the team’s most consistent performers this season, said this phase has helped him feel more balanced and enjoy his cricket even more.
“This is the most beautiful phase of my life, and I’m enjoying every bit of it. It’s hard leaving her behind. I thought it would get easier as she grows up, but I was wrong; it’s only getting harder now that she’s running and trying to talk.”
Looking ahead, Rahul said he still has a lot of cricket left in him and wants to keep contributing to his team’s success and win more trophies. He added that looking back at what he has achieved so far helps him stay grounded, especially during tough times.
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