Following a strong beginning to his IPL 2025 season, KL Rahul's performance has tapered off, as he managed only 38 runs off 32 balls against RR on Wednesday. He was ultimately dismissed by Jofra Archer while DC scored 188/5 in their IPL 2025 match. In response, RR reached 188/4, leading to a Super Over, which was enforced by Mitchell Starc. In the Super Over, Starc's outstanding performance secured the victory for DC. Chasing a target of 12 runs, DC successfully scored 13 runs without losing a wicket in just 0.4 overs, with Rahul contributing 7 runs off three balls, including a four.

In a discussion on ESPNCricinfo, Cheteshwar Pujara expressed his concerns regarding Rahul's batting strategy, suggesting that the Indian cricketer failed to take enough risks against the RR bowlers.

“KL, as a senior player, seemed to aim for a longer stay at the crease, wanting to play 15-20 balls before getting out. However, he should have been more aggressive, especially since he had already settled in and understood the pitch conditions,” he remarked.

“His batting position has also shifted somewhat, and he appears to be in the process of adjusting. Typically, he plays aggressively during the powerplay, but it is crucial for him to maintain that intensity afterward. It seemed as though he prioritized preserving his wicket over playing his natural game,” he added.

KL Rahul not in good form

In the match against MI, Rahul struggled to establish himself, scoring only 15 runs off 13 balls. However, during the Super Over against RR, he regained some form by capitalizing on Sandeep Sharma's inclination to deliver slower balls.

Following the match, Tristan Stubbs, who partnered with Rahul in the Super Over, remarked, “He (Sandeep) was delivering slower-ball bouncers, so I committed to that shot. KL advised me to take my time, emphasizing the importance of managing pressure.”

With this victory, DC now leads the IPL 2025 points table with 10 points, having secured five wins and one loss. In contrast, RR sits in eighth place, with two wins and five losses.

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