Shubman Gill had a fantastic Test tour of England, which ended earlier this month. He was named India’s new Test captain after Rohit Sharma retired from the format. At 25, he had a lot to prove. While it is too early to judge his captaincy, he made a big impact with the bat.

In 10 innings, Gill scored 754 runs at an average of 75.40. He passed fifty-four times and turned all of them into hundreds. He began his captaincy with 147 in Leeds and then scored 269 and 161 in Birmingham. He also made a patient 103 in Manchester, which helped India draw the match. So far, Gill has played 37 Test matches. After his brilliant series in England, we compare his stats with KL Rahul at the same stage.

Also Read -Ravichandran Ashwin, the Explorer and IPL Professor Opens New Avenues.

Shubman Gill vs KL Rahul – Who Has Better Numbers After 37 Tests?

In 37 Tests, Shubman Gill has scored 2,647 runs at an average of 41.35. Before the England series, his average was around 35. Out of his 2,600-plus runs, 1,346 have come in 15 matches against England at an average of 51.76.

The Gujarat Titans (GT) skipper has also scored 537 runs in nine Tests against Australia, averaging 35.80. He has 324 runs in five matches against New Zealand at 32.40, and 321 runs in four games against Bangladesh at 45.85. 

After 37 Tests, KL Rahul had 2,116 runs at an average of 35.26. Of these, 642 runs came in nine matches against England at 40.12. He also scored 580 runs in nine Tests against Australia at 38.66, 374 runs in seven matches against West Indies at 41.55, and 354 runs in seven games against Sri Lanka at 32.18.

Who Has Scored More Hundreds and Runs in Key Matches?

In 37 Tests, Gill has nine hundreds and seven fifties. Six of his centuries came against England, including four in the 2025 Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy. He also has two hundreds against Bangladesh and one against Sri Lanka. His highest score is 269.

Rahul had five hundreds and 12 fifties after 37 Tests. His best was 199 against England in Chennai in 2016. Of his five tons, two came against England and one each against Australia, Sri Lanka, and West Indies.

Gill has also done better in SENA nations (South Africa, England, New Zealand, Australia). In 16 Tests there, he has 1,268 runs at 42.26 with four centuries. Rahul, in 13 SENA Tests, scored 626 runs at 25.04 with two centuries. In winning causes, Gill has 1,573 runs at 54.24 in 18 Test wins, with six hundreds. Rahul, in 21 wins, scored 1,221 runs at 37 with two centuries.

The internet has been buzzing with the news of Axar Patel, who is likely to be sacked as the captain of the Delhi Capitals (DC) ahead of the IPL 2026 season. Although the franchise has shown signs of retaining the spin bowling all-rounder, the possibility of him continuing as the DC skipper appears slim.

In such a scenario, the Delhi-based outfit may be compelled to explore alternative captaincy options in the form of Faf du Plessis, KL Rahul, and Tristan Stubbs. In this article, we will look at the top three captaincy candidates who are likely to fill Axar's shoes ahead of the next IPL season. 

See also: Unknown fact about Salman Nizar: This IPL franchise called him for trail

Faf du Plessis

The veteran Proteas batter has a wealth of experience in competing in various franchise leagues around the world. In addition, the 41-year-old has led several notable franchises to success. He was appointed as RCB's skipper in 2022 and captained them for two years before stepping down. Under him, the Bangalore-based outfit made it to the 2024 playoffs. Elsewhere outside the IPL, Faf also endured a successful stint in the CPL by taking St Lucia Kings to their maiden CPL title win in 2024. Apart from CPL, the South African veteran also experienced a stellar run in MLC 2025. Leading the Texas Super Kings, Faf powdered the opposition with multiple centuries and took his side to a commanding position in the league.

Add to that, the South African southpaw has also captained the Proteas at the international level, leading his side in all three formats. Earlier in the IPL 2024 season, Faf served as a deputy to Axar. Faf's experience will be quite invaluable, and being the vice-captain of the team, he looks like the strongest contender to become the next captain of the Delhi Capitals ahead of the upcoming IPL season. 

KL Rahul

Indian all-format specialist batter KL Rahul is another formidable cricketing personality who can take over the captaincy baton from Axar ahead of the 19th IPL edition. Rahul is blessed with some strong captaincy credentials at his disposal. The Bangalore-based batter has so far captained two IPL franchises to this day—PBKS & LSG. His captaincy journey in the IPL began in 2020 with PBKS. Though PBKS struggled to make it to the top four, Rahul did not allow the burden of captaincy to affect his natural game. He finished the 2020 season as the highest run scorer with 670 runs to his name and slammed his best score of 132*, which was, at that time, the highest by an Indian in the IPL.

Then, in 2022, he switched his allegiance to LSG. Although he was ruled out midway through the 2023 season, Rahul was able to make a comeback a year later. However, LSG failed to deliver a promising performance under his leadership and crashed out prematurely from IPL 2024. Sanjiv Goenka, the owner of LSG, was visibly vexed to see the results, and Rahul was eventually sidelined from the squad ahead of IPL 2025. Although at first, Rahul declined to take over DC's captaincy ahead of the 2025 season, experts suggest he could change his mind as the next season looms large.

Tristan Stubbs

Tristan Stubbs, unlike his earlier predecessors, has age on his side. The South African batting all-rounder is currently in the midst of navigating the early phase of his IPL career. Although Stubbs has no credible captaincy experience under his belt, he is well known for being a key performer and a highly versatile player. Moreover, the Delhi Capitals assistant coach even went as far as describing him as a “player for the next five years”, thereby underscoring his growing importance to the team. His adaptability, backing himself in high-pressure moments, and tactical awareness have drawn praise, though always as a player and not as a leader. 

At age 25, and with growing visibility, leadership opportunities might not be far off if he continues on this trajectory. The combination of explosive batting, athleticism, and significant on-field contributions that he consistently showcases during crucial moments of a match may entice the DC management to move away from seasoned players and invest in the promising young all-rounder.

Delhi Capitals (DC), just before the 2025 season of the Indian Premier League (IPL), decided to appoint the left-arm Indian spin all-rounder, Axar Patel, as the new leader of the side. The veteran has been a crucial member of the franchise in balancing the squad and team selection with his four overs of bowling and the batting ability at the lower or middle order of the line-up.

Under Axar Patel’s leadership, Delhi finished in the fifth position in the points table. They won seven encounters out of 14 games at a net run rate of +0.011. It was a bizarre season for the franchise, which started its event with five wins in the first six games before facing four defeats in the five games towards the business end of the competition.

See Also: [WATCH] Craziest hit-wicket on wide delivery during CPL 2025 as video goes viral

Axar clubbed 263 runs at a strike rate of 157.48 in 11 innings of the IPL 2025, with the best score of 43 runs. Along with that, he picked up just five wickets in 11 innings at an average of 57.60 and an economy rate of 8.47, with the best bowling figure of 2/19 in an innings.

Delhi Capitals likely to search for new captain to replace Axar Patel

The Capitals had several experienced players in the side, including the former two captains from the league, Faf du Plessis and KL Rahul. The latter contributed immensely with the bat, having accumulated 539 runs in 13 innings of the IPL 2025 at an average of 53.60 and a strike rate of 149.72, with three half-centuries and one century.

Axar was decent in the job, but to expect batting, bowling, and fielding at the grey areas of the ground, and then to lead the side was an external job for the left-arm spinner. On the other hand, Rahul could be an option, having crossed the 500-run mark in the last eight seasons of the event apart from 2023.

Faf can also be an option in this department. However, fitness could be a concern for the former Protea batter, who missed a big chunk of the previous season of the event due to injury. Else, they can look for some other batter for the position, which is unlikely to happen. 

KKR are reportedly interested in bringing KL Rahul and could make him their captain, as they look to strengthen their squad after a tough 2025 season.

Rahul was the leading run-scorer for Delhi Capitals in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025. He is a multitasker who can contribute with the bat, behind the stumps, and also bring strong leadership skills. KKR, who need to fill key positions, especially after struggling to find a reliable wicketkeeper and leader last season, might see him as the perfect fit.

The Kolkata Knight Riders are the third most successful team in IPL history. However, despite being defending champions in 2025, they could not make it to the playoffs. They had several poor performances, including a failed chase of 112 against the Punjab Kings.

Also Read -Australia stars gain big in ICC ODI rankings update after home series against South Africa

KKR May Propose Player Trade or Cash Deal for KL Rahul

Reports suggest that KKR may propose a player trade or a big cash deal to Delhi Capitals to get KL Rahul. Since Shreyas Iyer left after KKR’s title-winning IPL 2024 season, the team has struggled with leadership. Ajinkya Rahane took over as captain in IPL 2025 and batted well, but his leadership did not help the team.

Adding to the uncertainty, Rahane also stepped down as captain of Mumbai in domestic cricket. KKR is unsure if he will be willing to lead the team next season.

🚨KL RAHUL TO KKR🚨

-Reports suggest that Kolkata Knight Riders is likely to propose a player trade or a significant cash offer to the Delhi Capitals in order to acquire KL Rahul.

- https://t.co/DCDJ0x8uwA pic.twitter.com/erzSzvYrU3

— KKR Vibe (@KnightsVibe) August 27, 2025

KL Rahul Could Lead KKR in IPL 2026

KKR is considering bringing KL Rahul, a seasoned IPL captain, who can add experience and stability to the team. Sanju Samson, who may leave Rajasthan Royals, is also linked with KKR.

The trade is not certain because the Delhi Capitals may not want to let go of one of their key players. KKR still needs to find a suitable trade package. Chennai Super Kings are also rumoured to be interested in Rahul for a leadership role, adding more competition.

If the trade happens, KL Rahul is likely to become KKR’s captain for IPL 2026. He would bring experience and help the team recover from recent struggles.

Venkatesh Iyer May Be Released for Trade

Venkatesh Iyer, bought for INR 23.75 Crores, may be released to make space for Rahul. KKR does not have enough money for an all-cash deal, but they could trade two players to Delhi Capitals in exchange for KL Rahul. For this deal, the Capitals must also be interested in the two KKR players.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is preparing for a major shake-up in both its men’s and women’s selection committees. On Friday, the board released an advertisement inviting applications for two men’s national selectors, four women’s selectors, and one junior men’s selector. The deadline for applying is September 10.

As per BCCI’s rules, candidates applying for men’s national selector positions must have played at least seven Tests and 30 first-class matches, or 10 ODIs and 20 first-class games. However, these eligibility rules don’t apply to women’s selectors or junior selectors. Another important rule is that every applicant must have retired from cricket at least five years ago.

ALSO READ: OTD: Michael Clarke bid adieu to international cricket

Currently, the women’s selection panel is headed by former left-arm spinner Neetu David, along with Aarti Vaidya, Shama Shaw, and Renu Margret. Their term ends in September, and the board is planning a complete revamp. Interestingly, this same panel recently picked the 15-member squad for the Women’s World Cup to be played in India and Sri Lanka from September 30.

On the men’s side, the current selection committee is led by chief selector Ajit Agarkar, with members Shiv Sunder Das, Subroto Banerjee, Ajay Ratra, and Sridharan Sharath. According to reports, former India spinner Pragyan Ojha is the frontrunner to replace Sharath from the South Zone, whose term ends next month. Sharath may return as junior chief selector, a role he had held when India won the Under-19 World Cup in 2022.

Pragyan Ojha Will Take Over as Men’s Panel Member from Sridharan Sharath

Ojha was a successful left-arm spinner, who had a successful career as a bowler in that region and an impact bowler/news-maker on turning tracks. The former India bowler, who played 24 Tests (113 wickets), has also played 40 ODIs (21 wickets), and 24 T20Is (6 wickets) since also retiring in 2020. Also, Ojha has plenty of experience, along with knowledge of the game, to suggest he should be an easy recommendation for a strong role.

BCCI Reminder - Top Players Must Play Domestic Whenever Possible

At the same time, the BCCI has also reminded state associations that centrally-contracted players must play domestic tournaments when they are available. The reminder comes after players like KL Rahul, and Mohammed Siraj, which was not picked for the Duleep Trophy. BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia clarified that it is a reminder for the top players to strengthen the game and domestic cricket when there is no international schedule.

The final appointments will be ratified at the BCCI's Annual General Meeting expected next month. With these appointments, the board will add more energy and fresh ideas to the selection process and promote India's top players to connect with domestic cricket.

BCCI announced a squad for Asia Cup 2025. The board has tried to create a well-balanced team on pen and paper with the skipper Surya Kumar Yadav in front. Shubman Gill was assigned as his deputy for the tournament. Outside the squad, there are a lot of talents who could be named in the team. The article is to fix a lineup only with the non-selected players. 

The non-selected XI:

Sai Sudharsan: One of the best Indian batters of IPL 2025. After playing back-to-back effective innings for Gujarat Titans, the top-order batter got a chance to represent India's Test squad. In 15 matches, at an average of 54.21, the emerging batter scored 759 in the season. But, unfortunately, he was not named for the Asia Cup 2025 squad. 

Yashasvi Jaiswal: The 23-year-old became a reliable opener for all formats. After playing 23 T20Is, the southpaw maintained an average over 36, supported by one century and 5 half-centuries. Ajit Agarkar, the chief selector of BCCI, said that the competition was between Jaiswal and Abhishek Sharma. They chose Sharma over Jaiswal. In IPL 2025, in 14 matches for Rajasthan Royals, he scored 559 runs at an average of 43.00.

Ishan Kishan: The keeper-batter who utilized the IPL 2025 as his stage to bounce back. After a lot of controversies, the aggressive, versatile cricketer announced his retirement from Sunrisers Hyderabad with a hundred. The batter, who has experience playing over thirty T20Is, played 14 matches for Hyderabad to score 354 runs at an average of 35.40. 

Shreyas Iyer: Iyer's snub from the Asia Cup 2025 squad came as the most shocking decision by the BCCI selectors. After making a brilliant comeback in ODIS, the batter led Punjab Kings to the IPL 2025 final. For Punjab, the middle-order batsman scored 604 runs in 17 IPL 2025 matches and maintained a batting average of 50.33. In 47 T20I innings for India, he scored 1,104 runs in total. 

Read More: UP T20 6th Match:Noida Super Kings vs Gorakhpur Lions Live Streaming & Where to watch

KL Rahul: The 33-year-old revived himself through the IPL 2025 season and continued his smooth batting during the Anderson-Tendulkar trophy against England. For Delhi Capitals in IPL 2025, the top versatile batter got 539 runs under his belt by playing 13 matches. Against England, he scored a couple of hundreds as well. 

Riyan Parag: Another cricketer who could be in the Asia Cup squad. In IPL 2024 and IPL 2025, his batting average jumped to over 30, which showed how the all-rounder has developed himself over the years. Parag, so far, has batted in 6 T20Is for India, where he mostly operated as a lower middle-order batsman. In those matches, he batted in 4 different positions. Parag’s versatility could prove useful in Dubai. 

Washington Sundar/Krunal Pandya: Under pressure, the 25-year-old smashed a hundred at Old Trafford to save Team India from the worst possible result. At The Oval, during the final and series-decider Test, Sundar claimed a half century in the second innings. In 6 IPL 2025 matches with GT, the all-rounder scored 133 runs in 5 innings and took only a couple of wickets.

Krunal Pandya, the best player of the IPL 2025, the unsung hero for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). The all-rounder claimed 17 wickets for RCB in 15 matches and played an unbeaten 73-run innings as well. His T20I stats are also attractive enough for national team selection. In 19 T20Is, Krunal took 15 scalps and scored 124 runs. 

Ravi Bishnoi: The spinner from Rajasthan emerged as a standout performer in domestic cricket and IPL. Through his effective bowling spells, Bishnoi got to play for India and has already played 42 T20Is to get 61 wickets. In the IPL 2025, the Lucknow Super Giants star struck 9 times in 11 games. 

Yuzvendra Chahal: The experienced spinner played a vital role in taking Punjab Kings to the final of IPL 2025. Proving multiple opposing factors wrong, he bagged 16 wickets in 14 IPL 2025 matches for Punjab Kings. The 35-year-old played 80 T20Is for Team India and got 96 wickets. For Northamptonshire, he played a few county matches in recent times with notable success. 

Mohammed Siraj: The new superstar for Team India whose brilliance helped Shubman Gill lead India to defeat England at The Oval and made the scoreline 2-2. The tireless fast bowler played 15 IPL 2025 matches for Gujarat Titans and clinched 16 wickets. After playing 16 T20Is, his economy rate stands at 7.79, and he has bagged 14 scalps in total. 

Bhuvaneshwar Kumar: Kumar is the man who, in IPL 2025, proved old is gold. For Royal Challengers Bengaluru, the seamer took 17 wickets, playing 14 matches at an economy rate of 9.28. The seamer, who played his last T20I match in 2022, could be an interesting addition for the Asia Cup 2025 squad.

India's non-selected XI for Asia Cup 2025:

Sai Sudharsan, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Ishan Kishan (wk), Shreyas Iyer (c), KL Rahul (vc), Riyan Parag, Washington Sundar/Krunal Pandya, Ravi Bishnoi, Yuzvendra Chahal, Mohammed Siraj, and Bhuvaneshwar Kumar.

India's full squad for Asia Cup 2025:

Surya Kumar Yadav (C), Shubman Gill (VC), Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Jitesh Sharma (WK), Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Varun Chakaravarthy, Kuldeep Yadav, Sanju Samson (WK), and Harshit Rana and Rinku Singh.

India’s chief selector Ajit Agarkar and captain Suryakumar Yadav revealed the 15-member squad for the Asia Cup 2025 in the UAE on Wednesday, August 19. Of all the picks, the inclusion of Shivam Dube was controversial, as the all-rounder hasn't had great impact in T20Is. He has played 35 matches so far but consistently underwhelming with bat and ball has genuinely raised questions about his inclusion. Many expected the selectors to look beyond him, especially given India’s wealth of talent in the shortest format. Dube’s continued presence in the squad has, therefore, become one of the more surprising calls.

Dube was also part of India’s victorious 2024 T20 World Cup campaign but managed only modest contributions. In eight innings, he scored 133 runs at an average of 22.16 with a strike rate of 114.65 which are not good numbers for a middle-order batter in T20. Although, he did play a useful 27 off 16 balls in the final against South Africa, which helped India lift the trophy. But there are still queries regarding his consistency and any impact he has made in these major tournaments. A lot of strong contenders were left off the selection announcement, which leads people to think there may have been better options available to consider. Let us look at three players could have replaced him;

Yashasvi Jaiswal

Yashasvi Jaiswal was reportedly in contention for the backup opener’s role alongside Shubman Gill, but the latter was preferred and also named vice-captain for the Asia Cup 2025. Jaiswal had been part of India’s T20 World Cup squad in 2024 but did not feature in any game as Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli opened the innings throughout the tournament. His exclusion from the latest squad came as a surprise to many, given his potential to provide explosive starts at the top of the order.

See Also: 'I cannot think of a reason for...' - Former India coach unhappy with exclusion of Shreyas Iyer from Asia Cup 2025 squad

Jaiswal was last seen in T20I action during the series against Sri Lanka in July 2024 and has a solid record in the format. In 23 T20Is, Jaiswal has scored 723 runs with a batting average of 35.15 and strike rate of 164.32, proving he can score quickly from ball 1. Jaiswal would have made a threatening opening pair with Abhishek Sharma. With two of the three keepers, Sanju Samson and Gill, able to bat in the middle order at No. 3 it is unfortunate this opportunity was lost for Jaiswal and India at the T20I event.

KL Rahul

KL Rahul has long been criticized for his lower strike rates during T20 cricket matches, but his IPL 2025 season showed a much more aggressive approach. The stylish right-handed batsman was able to consistently attack the bowlers right from the start, and Rahul ended the IPL 2025 season with 539 runs in 13 matches with an average of 53.90, and struck at a 149.72 rate, the highest strike rate that he had in the IPL since 2018. This was a clear indication that he had adapted his game, and made observers reconsider previously expressed concerns about his viability in difficult T20 match conditions.

For International cricket, Rahul has had a reliable T20I career scoring 2265 runs in 72 matches, with an average of 37.75, and a strike rate of 139.13. Although he has respectable figures, he has not featured for India in T20Is since their T20 World Cup semifinal loss to England in 2022. He could add real value for India during the Asia Cup 2025, especially in the friendly batting conditions of the UAE because he plays spin and pace both with relative ease. There was surprise from fans and expert observers lineup with the decision to omit him.

Shreyas Iyer

As we approached the announcement of the squad on Wednesday, we were given strong indications that Shreyas Iyer would be returning to India's T20 setup after a long absence. The stylish Mumbai batter had an outstanding IPL 2025 season, taking Punjab Kings to the finals while impressing with his sharp leadership credentials. He was one of the tournament's most consistent performers with the bat, scoring 604 runs in 17 games at an average of 50.33 and a strike rate of 175.07, which shows his value in pressure moments.

Despite his IPL heroics, Shreyas has not played a T20I since December 2023. In his international career, he amassed 1104 runs from 51 T20Is at an average of 30.67 and a strike rate of 136.13. Known for his poise and artistry against spinners, Iyer could have provided stability in the middle order in the 2025 Asia Cup. The tournament was being played in the UAE where many of the pitches are spin-friendly and his absence raised eyebrows among fan and cricket observers alike.

KL Rahul’s recent comeback has been an impressive redemption journey. Once criticized for inconsistency, the stylish right-hander has worked his way back to form with grit and determination. His hard work has paid off, as he has now secured his place in both India’s ODI and Test line-ups with strong performances.

In ODIs, Rahul has shown composure in the middle order, often anchoring innings under pressure while still managing to accelerate when required. Similarly, in Tests, he has found stability and rhythm, contributing crucial runs at the top of the order. These consistent displays have silenced doubts about his role across formats and re-established his importance in the team setup.

The final chapter of his comeback story could be a return to India’s T20I squad. If Rahul continues his current form, reclaiming a spot in the shortest format would complete his inspiring revival across formats.

See Also: ‘No one was better than him in the middle overs’- Aakash Chopra advocates Indian batter’s selection in India’s Asia Cup 2025 squad

KL Rahul: A Potential Player in India’s Squad for Asia Cup:

KL Rahul last featured in T20Is during the 2022 World Cup semi-final against England, a game that ended in disappointment for India. He nearly made a comeback for the 2024 T20 World Cup after an excellent IPL season, but competition from Rishabh Pant and Sanju Samson kept him out of the squad.

However, his resurgence in IPL 2025 has reignited the debate. Playing a new role with a different franchise, Rahul showcased adaptability and match-winning ability, reminding everyone of his quality in the shortest format. His form has now placed him firmly back in contention for the Asia Cup 2025, making a strong case for his inclusion in India’s squad.

#1 India’s squad would benefit from a seasoned and adaptable player for future campaigns

The selection panel is grappling with tough choices for India’s opening pair, but the middle order seems less crowded. Besides captain Suryakumar Yadav and Hardik Pandya, no other player has firmly secured a spot, leaving room for potential candidates to stake their claim for the upcoming Asia Cup 2025 squad.

Tilak Varma, Rinku Singh, and Shivam Dube remain uncertain selections, showing potential but lacking consistent long-term impact. In the midst of uncertainty, KL Rahul emerges as a reliable and versatile option, bringing experience and consistency to strengthen India’s batting lineup for the Asia Cup 2025.

A concern for India is Suryakumar Yadav’s recent form and limited match practice before the Asia Cup. Despite a poor home series against England, he bounced back with a strong IPL season. However, a hernia surgery during the off-season has kept him out of action, prompting the team management to strengthen the middle order until he regains full match fitness.

KL Rahul, who can bat both in the top and middle order, fits perfectly into a dynamic lineup alongside players like Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson, and Suryakumar Yadav. In the IPL, he successfully anchored the middle order amid aggressive batters. Additionally, his experience as a wicket-keeper adds versatility, making him a valuable all-round option for India’s Asia Cup 2025 squad.

#2 KL Rahul’s proficiency against spin can be a key advantage in UAE conditions

India’s next major T20 event is the home World Cup in early 2026, with most preparation, except for an Australia tour, happening in the subcontinent starting with the Asia Cup. This makes it essential for the team to include players who can effectively handle spin bowling in familiar subcontinental conditions.

KL Rahul excelled against spin bowling during the 2025 IPL, scoring at an impressive average of 103 with a strike rate of 134. Remarkably, he was dismissed by spinners only twice throughout the entire tournament, highlighting his consistency and skill in handling spin-heavy attacks.

Most teams in the Asia Cup boast strong spin attacks, as seen in the 2025 Champions Trophy. KL Rahul’s spin skills guided India through challenging match situations. Despite changes in format and batting role, his ability to handle spin remains a valuable asset, potentially strengthening India’s batting lineup in crucial matches.

#3 KL Rahul has adjusted effectively to the demands of contemporary T20 cricket

KL Rahul’s recent IPL performances show his skill in quickly reading conditions and match situations. He can formulate a strategy based on these factors and construct his innings accordingly, adapting his approach to suit the game’s requirements and deliver impactful performances consistently.

Consequently, KL Rahul stands out as one of India’s most versatile T20 players. He has proven his ability to adapt across various conditions—whether on flat or challenging pitches—and in different roles, from aggressive finisher to anchor. His skill set allows him to perform effectively in any situation, making him a highly complete and dependable asset for India’s T20 lineup.

KL Rahul’s versatility and complete skill set can be crucial for India in upcoming matches. With tough opponents and challenging conditions on the horizon, his experience and versatility offer the team a reliable option to navigate difficult situations, strengthen the batting lineup, and provide stability in high-pressure matches across formats.

Various names for India’s Asia Cup 2025 squad have been considered, but none of these include KL Rahul, the opening batter, who didn’t play the T20 World Cup 2024 and hasn’t played the shortest format for the national side since 2022, having smashed 2265 runs at a strike rate of nearly 140.

The former India opening batter, Aakash Chopra, gives his view regarding the importance of KL Rahul for the Asia Cup, reckoning that the right-handed batter could be part of the T20I set-up, given that he could play aggressive cricket if needed, but has lost reputation due to his slow batting at times.

See Also: Gautam Gambhir's tenure over? Cheteshwar Pujara predicts this legend as India's new head coach

“Very, very interesting one. Your question is valid because he is a good player. If you see his IPL numbers, they are outstanding. In the recent past, no player has been a 600-run bank like him. However, a reputation has developed that he plays very slowly at times.” Chopra smashed during a recent YouTube video on the channel.

Akash Chopra highlights KL Rahul's chances for India ahead of Asia Cup 2025

Rahul smashed 539 runs for Delhi Capitals in the recently concluded 2025 season of the IPL in 13 innings at an average of 53.90 and a strike rate of 149.72, scoring three fifties and one century at the best score of 112*. Apart from the 2023 season when he got injured, the Karnataka-born crossed the 500-run mark in every season since 2018.

“If something is stopping him, it's his mindset. Sometimes his legs are shackled, and when the mindset is right, he flies with wings. I feel he has the game. I remember a shot, it was the Indore ground, and he hit Jasprit Bumrah for a six over cover, and I was like Wow. However, then you also get knocks when you feel that he should hit, but he thinks differently.” Akash Chopra addressed during the video.

“He cannot play as an opener because the opening story has ended, unfortunately, for the time being. Sanju Samson is there with Abhishek Sharma, Yashasvi Jaiswal is behind them, and I am putting Shubman Gill's name also at the fourth spot. Four people are standing in line.” The renowned commentator concluded.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 mini-auction is just a few months away, and trade rumours are already heating up. Big names like Sanju Samson, KL Rahul, and Ravichandran Ashwin are reportedly in the mix for possible moves. Although the new season will kick off next summer, franchises have begun analysing their squads, identifying weaknesses, and exploring ways to strengthen ahead of the auction. Discussions around player retention, releases, and strategic signings are already shaping the build-up to what promises to be another thrilling IPL season.

See Also: Sachin Tendulkar's son Arjun Tendulkar gets married to Mumbai businessman's granddaughter

The league has witnessed major trade deals in the past, with Hardik Pandya’s return to Mumbai Indians from Gujarat Titans for INR 15 crore ahead of IPL 2024 being one of the most notable. Pandya’s move came after he led the Titans to their maiden title in 2022, their debut season. As the auction approaches, similar blockbuster trades could be on the horizon. Here’s a look at four high-profile player moves that might take place before the IPL 2026 auction begins. Lets look some of the eye catching trade;

Sanju Samson (Rajasthan Royals to CSK)

Reports indicate that Rajasthan Royals (RR) skipper Sanju Samson could be traded to Chennai Super Kings (CSK), who are looking for a successor to MS Dhoni. Samson offers leadership qualities and reliability as a wicketkeeper-batter. Potential trade options for CSK include Shivam Dube, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ravindra Jadeja, or Ravichandran Ashwin to balance the deal.

Samson has been associated with RR since 2013, except for the 2016 and 2017 seasons when the franchise was banned. Over the years, he has become one of their most consistent performers and a key figure in their setup. He recently shared his experiences of playing for the Jaipur-based team.

Will Jacks (Mumbai Indians to Delhi Capitals)

England all-rounder Will Jacks had a below-par IPL 2025 with Mumbai Indians (MI), scoring only 233 runs and taking six wickets in 13 matches. This could see him on the move ahead of IPL 2026.

Delhi Capitals (DC) are a potential destination, with reports hinting they may trade Vipraj Nigam or Ashutosh Sharma. Jacks also plays for Pretoria Capitals in SA20, DC’s sister franchise, where he has scored 740 runs and taken 13 wickets in 27 matches.

KL Rahul (Delhi Capitals to KKR)

In a surprising development, wicketkeeper-batter KL Rahul could be traded to Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). Delhi Capitals bought him for INR 14 crore, and he delivered a strong season with the bat.

Rahul scored 539 runs in 13 matches, including three fifties and a century. As per The Times of India, KKR view him as both a batting boost and a potential captain, with his good rapport with assistant coach Abhishek Nayar adding to the appeal.

Venkatesh Iyer (KKR to RCB)

KKR bought Venkatesh Iyer for INR 23.75 crore at the IPL 2025 mega auction, but he underperformed, scoring only 142 runs in 11 matches at a strike rate of 139.21, with just one fifty.

Reports suggest Venkatesh could be traded to Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) for Phil Salt, who scored 403 runs in 13 matches with four fifties. RCB head coach Andy Flower had earlier admitted they tried to sign Venkatesh in the IPL 2025 mega auction, engaging in a bidding war with KKR.