Will KL Rahul leave Delhi Capitals before IPL 2026?

No, according to former India cricketer Suresh Raina, KL Rahul is the "backbone" of Delhi Capitals and it is highly unlikely the franchise will release him ahead of the IPL 2026 retention deadline.

How has Liam Livingstone performed for RCB?

Liam Livingstone, who was bought by RCB for a hefty price, scored only 112 runs at a strike rate of 133 in 10 matches, which according to JioStar expert Irfan Pathan, does not justify the big price tag.

What are the key areas Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) need to address for the 2026 season?

According to Suresh Raina and Matthew Hayden, SRH need to find a sensible middle-order batter and overhaul their bowling attack, as the Hyderabad pitch is a batting-friendly one.

Home / Sports / KL Rahul Emerges as Delhi Capitals' Indispensable Anchor for IPL 2026

KL Rahul Emerges as Delhi Capitals' Indispensable Anchor for IPL 2026

14 Nov

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Summary

KL Rahul's stellar performance for Delhi Capitals in IPL 2025
Axar Patel's impressive form in T20Is and ODIs
Liam Livingstone's underwhelming outing for RCB

KL Rahul Emerges as Delhi Capitals' Indispensable Anchor for IPL 2026

As the IPL 2026 season approaches, the retention plans of various franchises are under the spotlight. Former India cricketer Suresh Raina believes that KL Rahul, who joined Delhi Capitals before the IPL 2025 season, has emerged as the "backbone" of the team, making it highly unlikely that the franchise will release him ahead of the upcoming retention deadline.

Rahul has been one of the standout performers this season, scoring 539 runs in 13 innings at a strike rate close to 150, including a century and three fifties. Raina emphasized that Rahul's dual role as a wicketkeeper-batter makes him indispensable for the franchise. Additionally, Axar Patel's impressive form in T20Is and ODIs over the last few years has also been a positive for Delhi Capitals.

On the other hand, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) faces some tough decisions regarding their retention plans. JioStar expert Irfan Pathan highlighted the underwhelming performance of Liam Livingstone, who scored only 112 runs at a strike rate of 133 in 10 matches, despite being bought for a hefty price. Pathan also noted that financial considerations may force RCB to rethink Rasikh Salam's position, as his price tag of 6 crores may be a concern.