When the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) entered the IPL in 2022, their first-ever draft pick was none other than KL Rahul. It was a statement signing, a proven run-getter, a composed leader, and one of the most adaptable batters in Indian cricket.
Few players manage to excel wherever they go, given the challenges of adjusting to new environments, roles, and team cultures. But for Rahul, it’s become second nature. His ability to adapt, whether opening the batting, keeping wickets, or anchoring the innings has been key to his success across multiple franchises.
A Record-Breaker in the IPL
Over the years, KL Rahul has quietly built one of the most consistent records in IPL history. Representing five different teams, he has been a run machine, scoring over 500 runs in five consecutive seasons, a rare feat even among the league’s biggest stars.
He’s also led two franchises, smashed a 14-ball fifty, and remains the only player to score centuries for three different IPL teams. In IPL 2025, he added another milestone to his resume by becoming the fastest player to reach 5000 IPL runs, a testament to his incredible consistency.
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Tough Times in Lucknow
Rahul’s journey hasn’t been all smooth sailing, though. Despite being one of the top run-scorers, his strike rate often came under scrutiny during his stint with Punjab Kings (PBKS). Many felt his cautious approach cost the team momentum, and after IPL 2021, the franchise decided to move on.
That led to a new chapter, LSG’s first draft pick in 2022, signed for a whopping Rs 17 crore. Rahul led the new franchise for three seasons, scoring 1410 runs at an average of 41.47. His first season was a success, guiding LSG to a third-place finish.
But the following year turned out to be what Rahul himself later called his “worst-ever IPL season.”
In a candid chat on the 2 Sloggers YouTube show, Rahul initially misremembered 2022 as his worst year before correcting himself, it was actually 2023, the season marred by injury.
During a match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), Rahul injured his right thigh while fielding, suffering a tendon tear that required surgery and ruled him out for the rest of the tournament. “Oh yes, it was 2023… a bad, bad year,” he recalled.
Thankfully, Rahul bounced back later that year, marking his international return with a brilliant 111 against Pakistan in the 2023 Asia Cup, proving once again that class is permanent.
A Strained Relationship with LSG
Things took a dramatic turn in 2024 when Rahul’s relationship with the Lucknow management reportedly soured. After a heavy defeat to Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), cameras captured LSG owner Sanjiv Goenka in a heated discussion with Rahul, an exchange that instantly went viral.
The incident sparked rumours of a fallout between the two. Reports suggested tension within the camp, and LSG’s silence on Rahul across their social media channels only fueled the speculation.
Eventually, ahead of the IPL 2025 mega auction, Rahul and LSG parted ways after a private meeting in Kolkata. It marked the end of an uneasy but significant chapter in Rahul’s IPL journey.
A Fresh Start with Delhi Capitals
Now donning the Delhi Capitals (DC) jersey, Rahul looks rejuvenated and free. In IPL 2025, he scored 539 runs at a strike rate of 149.72 his best in seven years. Interestingly, he batted in the middle order, showing remarkable adaptability and a renewed attacking mindset.
This shift not only silenced critics but also highlighted Rahul’s versatility, the hallmark of a modern-day great. Whether opening the innings or finishing games, he continues to evolve, proving he’s far from done in IPL cricket.
Conclusion
From being LSG’s marquee signing to rebuilding his reputation with Delhi, KL Rahul’s IPL journey has been a story of resilience, adaptability, and quiet determination.
He may have had his share of setbacks, but with every new challenge, Rahul finds a way to reinvent himself and that’s what makes him one of the most fascinating and dependable cricketers of this generation.
