In a thrilling IPL 2025 encounter, KL Rahul made a stunning return to his home ground, Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, on April 10. The Delhi Capitals batsman delivered a match-winning knock of 93 not out, helping his team chase down a challenging target of 164 runs against the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). However, it was not just his performance with the bat that stole the show, but also his viral celebration that garnered attention across social media.

KL Rahul’s Match-Winning Knock

When Rahul came out to bat, Delhi Capitals were in deep trouble at 10/2 in the third over, and things got worse as the score read 30/3 after Abishek Porel was dismissed. The situation was looking grim for DC, and a defeat seemed likely, especially with RCB's bowling attack putting up a strong fight. But Rahul, who had previously played for RCB, was determined to make a statement at his home ground.

Once he settled in, Rahul showcased his class and elegance, hitting boundaries with precision and taking calculated risks. His innings was not only about staying calm under pressure but also about timing his shots perfectly, including several stunning strokes that put the ball to all parts of the ground. His ability to pace the innings was key, as he guided his team to victory with over two overs to spare, ensuring a six-wicket win for Delhi.

The Viral 'This is My Ground' Celebration

What truly went viral, however, was the celebration that followed Rahul’s winning shot. After smashing the ball for the winning runs, Rahul made a unique gesture by drawing a circle with his bat and shouting, "This is my ground!" His emotions were palpable as he celebrated not just the win but also his return to Bengaluru, where he had spent a significant portion of his IPL career with RCB. The gesture quickly went viral, and cricket fans took to social media to share their reactions and admiration for his bold statement.

Rahul Explains His Celebration

Post-match, Rahul addressed his emotional celebration, revealing the meaning behind it. "This is my ground, this is my home. I know this place better than anybody else," he said. He went on to explain that playing at Chinnaswamy Stadium was special for him and that he had a deep connection with the venue, having played numerous memorable matches there for RCB.

Rahul also spoke about how his role as a wicketkeeper during the match provided valuable insights into the pitch conditions. "What helped me was being behind the stumps for 20 overs, just watching how it played. From wicketkeeping, I figured that the ball sat in the wicket a little bit, but it was consistent throughout — it wasn’t two-paced, it was one-paced throughout," Rahul explained. This deep understanding of the pitch allowed him to pace his innings effectively, knowing where to place his shots and when to attack.

He further mentioned that he was fortunate to have been dropped earlier in his innings, which gave him the chance to settle in and play his natural game. "I knew what my shots were. Just wanted to get off to a good start, be aggressive initially and assess it from there," he added.

Impact of Rahul’s Knock

KL Rahul’s 93* was not just a match-winning effort but also a demonstration of his experience and class in the IPL. His calm and composed performance played a crucial role in guiding Delhi Capitals to a much-needed win, especially after their early top-order collapses. This was Rahul’s second consecutive half-century in the IPL 2025 season, showing his consistency and adaptability in various roles. In the previous match, Rahul had opened the innings, but in this game, he batted at number four, showcasing his flexibility and capability to anchor an innings when required.

What’s Next for Delhi Capitals?

This win is a significant morale booster for the Delhi Capitals, who have had a mixed run in the tournament so far. With KL Rahul in such fine form, the team will look to build on this momentum as the season progresses. Rahul's leadership and experience will be crucial for DC as they aim to make a strong push for the playoffs.

For Rahul, this knock and his viral celebration are sure to be remembered as one of the highlights of IPL 2025, cementing his status as one of the league's top players. Fans of Delhi Capitals and RCB alike will continue to enjoy watching his performances and celebrations, as he truly seems to be at home on the field, especially in Bengaluru.

The Upcoming IPOs in this week and coming weeks are Aten Papers & Foam.

Start your Stock Market Journey and Apply in IPO by Opening Free Demat Account in Choice Broking FinX.

Join our Trading with CA Abhay Telegram Channel for regular Stock Market Trading and Investment Calls by CA Abhay Varn - SEBI Registered Research Analyst.