Rahul’s IPL form reignites World Cup ambitions
KL Rahul has forced his name back into the conversation after an outstanding IPL 2025 season, scoring 539 runs at a strike rate of 149.7 and an average of 53.9. His consistency across formats — from the Champions Trophy to the recent England Test series — has added weight to calls for his recall.
Speaking to Sky Sports after the IPL, Rahul made clear that a return to India’s T20 setup remains a goal.
“Yes, I want to get back in the T20 team and the World Cup is on my mind, but for now it’s just trying to enjoy how I’m playing right now,” Rahul said.
Rahul has not played T20 cricket for India since the 2022 World Cup in Australia, where India exited in the semi-final against England.
Fans flood Twitter with calls for Rahul’s return
As speculation grew around the squad announcement, fans turned to X (formerly Twitter) to demand Rahul’s selection, trending his name nationwide.
“One chance to silence the noise. One chance to wear that jersey again. One chance 🙏 INDIA NEEDS KL RAHUL,” one fan wrote.
Another added: “He Deserves One Last Chance In T20i! INDIA NEEDS KL RAHUL.”
A third user went further: “If still he didn’t been selected for T20i then it will the downfall for the team so kindly include. Come on Rahulians trend it to show Craze of KL Rahul. 🇮🇳💙 INDIA NEEDS KL RAHUL #KLRahul.”
The wave of online backing reflects a belief that Rahul’s experience and current form could be vital in India’s Asia Cup and T20 World Cup build-up.
Aakash Chopra: reputation could hold Rahul back
Not everyone is convinced, however. Former India opener Aakash Chopra, speaking on his YouTube channel, praised Rahul’s talent but warned that his batting approach could work against him in T20 selection.
“Very, very interesting one. Your question is absolutely valid because he is a good player. If you see his IPL numbers, they are outstanding. In the recent past, no player has been a 600-run bank like him. However, a reputation has developed that he plays very slow at times,” Chopra said.
He pointed to mindset as a potential stumbling block:
“If something is stopping him, it’s his own mindset. Sometimes his legs are shackled, and when the mindset is right, he flies with wings. I feel he has the game. I remember a shot, it was the Indore ground, and he hit Jasprit Bumrah for a six over cover, and I was like wow. However, then you also get knocks when you feel that he should hit, but he thinks differently.”
Selection dilemma for India
India’s selectors now face a challenging call. With Shubman Gill, Shreyas Iyer, and Sai Sudharsan also competing for top-order slots, Rahul’s inclusion would require reshuffling an already packed batting lineup.
The final squad announcement for the Asia Cup will reveal whether Rahul’s performances — and the groundswell of fan support — are enough to earn him a place back in blue.
