IPL auction was a nerve-wracking experience, says KL Rahul

In a chat with Jio Hotstar, Rahul said over the years, he had seen how unpredictable auctions can be—there’s no fixed pattern to how things unfold

Mumbai: “The auction was a nerve-wracking experience. As a player, not knowing which team you will end up with is never easy,” says India batter K.L. Rahul.

In a chat with Jio Hotstar, Rahul said over the years, he had seen how unpredictable auctions can be—there’s no fixed pattern to how things unfold.

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“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,” Rahul said.

“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,” he said.

“I was definitely nervous, even a little anxious. 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,” Rahul said.

“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.,” he said.

On Delhi Capitals, Rahul said it would be a new experience and that he was excited.

” 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 said.

“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,” Rahul said.

Rahul said he had grown up playing in the top order. “From my first competitive match in Mangalore at the age of 11 to my early days playing for India, and for most of my career, I have been a top-order batter,” he said.

“It is the position I am most comfortable in and the one that feels most natural to me. That said, when you play a team sport, you don’t always get to choose what you want,” Rahul said

“You have to be flexible and willing to adapt to the team’s needs. Over the years, I’ve learned to embrace that and give my best in whichever role I’m assigned,” he concluded.