KL Rahul Roars at Chinnaswamy: Smashes 93, Beats RCB, Ends 9-Year Wait with a Fist to the Chest*

In a thrilling display of grit and flair, KL Rahul led from the front, guiding Delhi to a dramatic six-wicket win over RCB at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium.

Bengaluru: Thursday night turned electric at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium as KL Rahul produced a stunning unbeaten 93 off 53 balls, powering Delhi Capitals to a crucial victory against Royal Challengers Bangalore. Chasing 164, Delhi found themselves in early trouble at 30 for 3, but Rahul’s composure and counterattack turned the tide in the 18th over.

What followed was a rare emotional outburst from the otherwise calm Rahul—he slammed his bat on the turf and thumped his chest, celebrating not just a win but a personal comeback milestone. The innings marked his first IPL fifty at Chinnaswamy after a 9-year gap, making the moment all the more special.

Rahul: A Master of the Chase

Rahul’s latest knock further cements his status as one of the finest run-chasers in IPL history. With this innings, he has now scored 1,208 runs in 25 innings while chasing, at a staggering average of 71 and a strike rate of 148. He has notched up 12 fifties, with a personal best of 98 not out. Among the 56 batsmen to score over 500 runs in successful IPL chases, Rahul trails only David Miller in average (103.70).

After the match, Rahul didn't shy away from laying claim to the turf. “This is my ground, this is my home. I know it better than anyone else,” he said, sending a clear message—a subtle dig at RCB icon Virat Kohli—that the Chinnaswamy belongs just as much to him.

Behind the Gloves and the Bat

Awarded Player of the Match, Rahul highlighted how wicketkeeping gave him an edge. “The wicket was a bit tricky. Staying behind the stumps for 20 overs helped me read the pitch and spot where batters were getting out. That made batting easier,” he said. He also admitted being fortunate with dropped catches and expressed sheer joy playing at what he called his ‘home ground’.

Delhi Capitals Hold Strong at No. 2

With this victory, Delhi Capitals remain second in the IPL 2025 points table, having won all four of their matches so far. They trail only Gujarat Titans, who have a better net run rate despite winning four of five games. Delhi’s campaign has included wins over Lucknow (by 1 wicket), Hyderabad (by 7 wickets), Chennai (by 25 runs), and Bangalore (by 6 wickets).

Bottom Line:
KL Rahul’s fiery knock wasn’t just about runs—it was a statement of ownership, passion, and performance. At a stadium that once saw his early days, he returned with a bang, turning the tide for Delhi and reminding fans why he remains one of IPL’s finest under pressure.