KL Rahul's Availability for DC vs LSG IPL 2025 Opener: Axar Patel Provides Insight

KL Rahul, who was acquired by Delhi Capitals (DC) for a whopping ₹14 crore in the IPL 2025 auction, is set to wear a new jersey this season after a high-profile move from Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). The move came as a major highlight of DC's successful auction strategy, with the franchise receiving praise for their strategic bidding throughout the event in Jeddah.

However, as DC prepares for their IPL 2025 opener against LSG in Visakhapatnam, there are growing questions about whether Rahul will feature in the match. According to sources, Rahul is expected to miss the season opener due to personal reasons, as he is anticipating the arrival of his first child with wife Athiya Shetty. Additionally, Rahul was recently seen attending a promotional event in the Middle East, fueling further speculation about his availability.

AXAR PATEL PROVIDES UPDATE ON RAHUL’S AVAILABILITY

When asked about Rahul’s potential inclusion in the first match, DC’s newly appointed captain, Axar Patel, shared some insights. He confirmed that Rahul has joined the team, but his availability for the opener remains uncertain. Axar stated, “Obviously, he joined the team. We don't know yet [if he'll play]. Right now, we don’t know if he is available or not.”

DC’S AUCTION STRATEGY AND BIG BUYS

Rahul was DC’s most expensive acquisition during the auction, and the franchise’s strategy didn’t end there. Alongside Rahul, DC made some notable purchases, including Australian pacer, who was bought for ₹11.75 crores, and India's T. Natarajan, who was acquired for ₹10.75 crores. The franchise also made smart moves by using the Right to Match (RTM) card to secure Australian batter and South African Faf du Plessis, both at ₹9 crore and ₹2 crore, respectively.

AXAR PATEL TAKES THE HELM AS DC’S NEW CAPTAIN

The IPL 2025 season also marks a new era for DC, with Axar Patel replacing Rishabh Pant as the team’s captain. Pant, who was previously bought by LSG for a record ₹27 crore, faces added pressure following his high-profile move. His absence from India’s Champions Trophy squad, where KL Rahul took over the wicketkeeping duties, has intensified the spotlight on him. 

While Axar Patel has been entrusted with leading DC, the team’s captaincy was also a point of discussion, with Faf du Plessis and KL Rahul among the potential candidates.

CONCLUSION

As DC gears up for an exciting season, all eyes will be on KL Rahul’s availability and whether he will be able to make his debut for his new franchise in the season opener. Meanwhile, with Axar Patel at the helm, Delhi Capitals will look to build on their smart auction moves and make a statement in IPL 2025.