IPL 2026: ‘Big change now’ — former cricketer hails KL Rahul’s transformed batting approach

The Indian Premier League (IPL) has evolved drastically over the years, and the players who have kept up with the change are eventually ruling the league. KL Rahul, who is one of the best batters technically, struggled to score runs in the IPL a couple of years ago. However, from the last season, we have been seeing runs coming off his bat, and the reason is simple: he has evolved with the game. 

He also scored 152 runs, the highest score by an Indian in the league this season. Rahul has improved his game, and the former players haven't stopped talking about it ever since. The right-handed batter also scored a match-winning knock in yesterday's game against the Rajasthan Royals (RR). 

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Former India star praises KL Rahul’s shift in intent and aggressive mindset this season

Former cricketer Chesteshwar Pujara has praised KL Rahul for adapting to the game and improving his strike rate for the IPL. As an opener, it's important to get a good start in the powerplays, and the strike rate comes in handy. 

"KL Rahul has clearly worked on his strike rate, and that improvement has been visible over the last couple of seasons. The big change now is the clarity in his role, especially with him opening the batting, which gives him more control over the innings,” said Cheteshwar Pujara on Jio Hotstar.

“He looks more relaxed and confident, and that’s reflected in his performances across formats. That confidence, combined with better intent, has elevated his overall T20 game,” he added.

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Rahul’s consistent performances making a strong impact in IPL 2026 campaign

KL Rahul has emerged as one of the best players in the tournament. He owns the Orange Cap now since he scored yet another half-century against RR in Jaipur. Rahul scored 75 off 40 balls, including six boundaries and five sixes. After the end of the game, he was given the Player of the Match award, where he opened up about working hard on his strike rate. Rahul was not the player who played fast, but he has definitely picked up the game really well. 

“The strike rate. I think it was a big talking point for a few years. So that’s something that I’ve really worked on. So I’m happy that I’ve worked on that, and I’m doing what’s required for the team, number one, and doing what modern T20 cricket requires. And yeah, that’s something that’s pleasing for me,” he said in the post-match presentation.

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