‘Not knowing which team you will end up with is never easy’ – KL Rahul on IPL auction dynamics
The wicketkeeper-batter was acquired for INR 14 crore by Delhi Capitals at the mega auction in November 2024.
KL Rahul is among the several Indian superstars who will be featuring in the upcoming edition of the Indian Premier League. The wicketkeeper-batter will be representing Delhi Capitals. He was not part of Lucknow Super Giants' plans for IPL 2025, and was roped in by DC for INR 14 crore at the mega auction in November 2024.
The seasoned campaigner admitted to being apprehensive during when the auction was being conducted. He attributed it the unpredictabiluty of the auction process - a dynamic that almost becomes a make-or-break factor for a player when it comes to their future.
"The auction was a nerve-wracking experience. As a player, not knowing which team you will end up with is never easy. Over the years, I’ve seen how unpredictable auctions can be - there’s no fixed pattern to how things unfold," shared Rahul while speaking on JioHotstar's 'Superstars'.
"Having been a captain for the last three seasons, I have been actively involved in the process of building a team. I understand the kind of pressure franchises face when assembling a squad. But from a player's perspective, it’s even tougher because your career is at stake. The auction can shape a player's future or present unexpected challenges. I was definitely nervous, even a little anxious," he said.
Rahul even spoke about the owner of the franchise and how he was excited to be a component of Parth Jindal's setup.
"But at the same time, I knew this was the right step for my career. There was excitement too, though it didn’t last very long because reality sets in quickly. I’m really happy to be joining Delhi Capitals. Parth Jindal, the team’s owner, is a close friend, and we have spent a lot of time outside of cricket discussing various things. I know how passionate he is about the sport, and I’m thrilled to be a part of this team. We have a strong squad, and I’m looking forward to the season ahead," added Rahul.
Looks like a well-balanced side with most areas covered: Rahul
Rahul elaborated on the psychological challenges of moving to a new IPL franchise.
"This will be a new experience for me - joining a new franchise, possibly my fourth or fifth team in the IPL. I feel both excited and a little nervous. Every time you step into a new team environment, a lot of thoughts cross your mind - how the players will be, how the owners run the team, how the fans will respond - all of that. So, it's a mix of emotions," he observed.
He also delved into the composition of DC, in addition to expressing his excitement on teaming up with the likes of Mitchell Starc, Axar Patel, and Kuldeep Yadav in the time to come.
"Looking at the squad and how the management has built the team, it looks like a well-balanced side with most areas covered. There’s a great combination of experienced players and young talent, and I’m excited to play alongside some incredibly skilled youngsters and learn from them as well. With players like Mitchell Starc, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, many of whom I have played with before, we have a solid squad. I can’t wait for the IPL to begin,” concluded Rahul.
IPL 2025 is scheduled to get underway on Saturday, March 22. DC will take on Rahul's former franchise, Lucknow Super Giants, in their first encounter of the season.
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