KL Rahul scored 533 runs (Photo: PTI)
KL Rahul did not score 500 plus runs in IPL for the first time. He has done this 8 times so far in his IPL career. But, after crossing the 500 plus run mark for the 8th time, he made it different from the previous 7 occasions. KL Rahul described his 500 plus runs scored in IPL 2026 as special. The question is why? He answered this after the end of the match against Rajasthan Royals.
Rahul’s strong role in Delhi’s victory against RR
Delhi Capitals registered a strong victory by 5 wickets against Rajasthan Royals in the match played on May 17 in IPL 2026. KL Rahul played an important role in this victory of Delhi, who scored 56 runs with the help of 3 sixes in 42 balls while chasing the target of 194 runs. This was his fourth half-century in IPL 2026, on the basis of which he also crossed the 500-run mark this season. KL Rahul now has 533 runs after 13 matches.
Why scoring 500+ runs in IPL 2026 is special?
Now the question is whether KL Rahul scored more than 500 runs in IPL 2025 and IPL 2024 also. Even between IPL 2018 and IPL 2022, he scored more than 500 runs in every consecutive season. But, why was the 500 plus runs scored in IPL 2026 special for him compared to the rest? The answer to this is strike rate. KL Rahul himself has told about this.
This innings is special due to better strike rate – Rahul
Right-handed batsman KL Rahul said that I have already scored 500 runs in a season of IPL. But, this is special because in this I have also taken care of my strike rate, which is the demand of modern T20.
Rahul’s strike rate in IPL 2026 is 171.93
Of course, KL Rahul crossed the 500-run mark 7 times even before IPL 2026. But, that spark was not visible in his batting then, it is visible now. Here spark means strike rate. KL Rahul has scored 533 runs in 13 matches at a strike rate of 171.93 in IPL 2026. Before this, his best strike rate was 149.72 in the last season.
Answer given to those who raised questions
Questions have often been raised regarding the strike rate on KL Rahul in T20 format. But, by scoring 533 runs in 310 balls in IPL 2026, he has not only shown the change in himself but has also responded to the pointing of fingers towards him.
