Former South African skipper Faf du Plessis reckons KL Rahul just needs direction and role clarity ahead of IPL 2026. The flamboyant batter batted mostly in the middle order in IPL 2025 as he opened only on four occasions. Towards the fag end of the tournament, Rahul scored an unbeaten knock of 112 runs off 65 balls against Gujarat Titans while opening the innings.

Rahul scored 539 runs in 13 matches of IPL 2025 at an average of 53.90 and a strike rate of 149.72. The Karnataka batter has been a consistent performer in the IPL over the years and he has done a good job while opening the innings. Faf backed Rahul to open the innings in the upcoming season.

Faf du Plessis, who was part of DC’s squad in the previous season, told ESPN Cricinfo, “I like KL opening, so he can play the tempo the game demands him to play. I know KL can do that, but he just needs direction and role clarity. He’s good enough to do that because we know the game is moving so fast because of the power play, where you have to be 65 after six.”

“Where is KL at his best? They had a role planned for him last season, which made sense at the time with him at No.4. He had to play a different style, but KL is that good to adapt to any style. But towards the end, they realized opening is the position that’s best for him and the team. So I expect them to go with him at the top.”

The former RCB captain said he would back Abishek Porel to open the innings with KL Rahul. Porel scored 301 runs in 13 matches in IPL 2025 at a strike rate of 146.82.

“They’ve retained Abishek Porel, a massive retention. I would look at Abishek opening with KL. That way, they can use another overseas bowler with Starc,” said Faf (via the aforementioned source).

Delhi Capitals will begin their IPL 2026 campaign against Lucknow Super Giants at Lucknow on 1st April.