KL Rahul Becomes Fastest Batter to 5000 IPL Runs During Delhi Capitals’ Victory Over LSG
KL Rahul etched his name into the record books once again by becoming the fastest batter to reach 5000 runs in the history of the Indian Premier League (IPL). The Delhi Capitals wicket-keeper batter reached the milestone in just 130 innings during an emphatic eight-wicket win over his former franchise, Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), on Tuesday.
With this achievement, Rahul surpassed an elite list that includes David Warner (135 innings), Virat Kohli (157), AB de Villiers (161), and Shikhar Dhawan (168), becoming the quickest to the landmark in terms of innings played.
Facing the team he once captained during the 2024 season, Rahul showcased composure and class, scoring an unbeaten 57 off 44 balls. His innings, though measured, proved pivotal as he steered Delhi Capitals to a comfortable victory. The match held added significance for Rahul, as it marked his first encounter against LSG following a controversial fallout with the franchise’s ownership that led to his release earlier in the season.
Navigating a challenging spell of spin bowling from Aiden Markram, Digvesh Rathi, and Ravi Bishnoi, Rahul slowly built his innings before launching a counterattack. He first lofted Bishnoi for a six over deep mid-wicket and followed it with another maximum off Markram, regaining momentum for his side.
Rahul brought up his half-century in 40 deliveries, an innings that included three fours and three sixes. Alongside Axar Patel, he led the charge, eventually finishing the game in style with a six off Prince Yadav.
The 33-year-old has been in sensational form this season. Not only has he become the fastest Indian to hit 200 sixes in the IPL, but he also now ranks as the third-fastest overall to that feat—only behind power-hitters Chris Gayle (69 innings) and Andre Russell (97 innings).
With 359 runs in eight innings, Rahul has been the cornerstone of Delhi’s batting lineup. His current strike rate of 155.67 is the second-highest in his 12-season IPL career, underlining his aggressive intent and consistency.
Rahul’s standout performance came against Royal Challengers Bengaluru, where he scored an unbeaten 93 to guide Delhi to a six-wicket win. Notably, he missed the team’s season opener due to the birth of his first child but has since returned in exceptional form, anchoring Delhi’s campaign with poise and purpose.
