KL Rahul, the dynamic Indian cricketer, has expressed his fondness for his time with Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Having joined RCB in 2013, Rahul returned to the franchise in 2016 after a brief stint with Sunrisers Hyderabad.
During an appearance on Star Sports’ “Unplugged,” Rahul shared his experiences with RCB, stating, “In 2016 when I went back to RCB, it could have been a fairytale story. I enjoyed playing at RCB the most. Bangalore is home, and the people there know me as a local Kannada boy.”
Rahul acknowledged the challenges of sports, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and adaptability. “Unfortunately in sports, your best is not good enough always. I have always been someone who has tried very hard, and I’ll find a way to bounce back. I’ll find a way to better my cricket. I am okay with any role or any responsibility.”
Addressing his departure from the Lucknow Super Giants, Rahul explained his desire for a fresh start and an environment where he could play with greater freedom. “I wanted to start fresh, I wanted to explore my options, and I wanted to go and play where I could find some freedom. Team atmosphere would be lighter. Sometimes you just need to move away and find something good for yourself, and I have been out of the T20 team for a while.”
Rahul expressed confidence in his abilities and his determination to regain his form. “I know where I stand as a player, and I know what I need to do to get back. I look forward to this IPL season to give me that platform to go back and enjoy my cricket. My aim is obviously to get back into the T20 team.”
In 2013, Rahul’s involvement with RCB was limited, playing in only five matches and batting in two innings. He accumulated 20 runs, with a highest score of 12, at an average of 10.00. His strike rate was 125.00, achieved from 16 balls faced. He didn’t score any half-centuries or centuries during that season.
In the field, Rahul took two catches and did not execute any stumpings. The 2016 season saw Rahul making a more significant impact. He played in 14 matches, batting in 12 innings, and remained not out on three occasions. This resulted in an average of 44.11. Rahul scored 397 runs, with his highest score being 68 not out, achieved at a strike rate of 146.49. He struck four half-centuries, 37 fours, and 16 sixes. Rahul’s contributions behind the stumps included five catches and four stumpings, showcasing his dual abilities as a batsman and wicketkeeper.
