It’s been more than three years since KL Rahul last featured in a T20 International for India. His most recent appearance in the format came during the 2022 T20 World Cup in Australia, where India suffered a crushing semifinal defeat to England. Since then, the landscape of Indian T20 cricket has shifted significantly—India went on to lift the T20 World Cup title last year without him.
But with the next edition of the tournament scheduled to be held on home soil in 2026, Rahul has set his sights firmly on making a return to the national T20 setup. To do that, Rahul knows he must first convince the selectors through performances—and he’s already making a strong case.
Representing Delhi Capitals in IPL 2025, the 33-year-old has scored 539 runs at an impressive strike rate of 149.72, showcasing both consistency and intent. With 2265 runs from 72 T20Is in his international career, the hunger to don the India jersey once again remains undiminished.
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“Yes, I want to get back into the T20 team, and of course, the World Cup is on my mind,” KL Rahul told Sky Sports. “But right now, I’m focused on enjoying my game and staying in the moment.”
KL Rahul said, “I want to make a comeback in the T20 team and the World Cup is on my mind, but right now I am just trying to enjoy my game.” [Sky Sports]#KLRahul #TeamIndia pic.twitter.com/ATlLQkUDJv
— KRISHNA GOUR (@krishnagour042) May 26, 2025
Reflecting on his journey, KL Rahul noted that he has never been one to demand a specific role from the team management. Instead, he’s embraced the challenge of adapting to what the team needs.
“If you look at how my career has shaped up, I’ve never gone to the selectors or captain asking for a role. I’ve always believed in adapting to the situation and fulfilling whatever responsibility the team assigns me,” he said.
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KL Rahul has batted across the order—from opening to even slotting in at No. 7. “Once the captain and coaches clearly define the role, whether it’s opening or batting at No. 5 or 6, it gives me clarity, and I start working my game around that,” he explained.
With form on his side and experience in his arsenal, Rahul is making a compelling push for a T20I comeback ahead of next year’s home World Cup.
