KL Rahul did not play when Delhi Capitals met Lucknow Super Giants earlier this season in Vizag. However, he returned to Lucknow on Tuesday and played a crucial role in Delhi's win. His calm and steady innings helped Delhi chase down the target comfortably. Despite the quality of his performance, what caught more attention was his cold interaction with LSG owner Sanjiv Goenka and his son Shashwat.

Former Captain Uses Familiar Conditions

Having spent three seasons with LSG, Rahul was familiar with the conditions in Lucknow. He made the most of that experience. After a reported fallout with Goenka last year, he parted ways with the team. On Tuesday, he used his knowledge well and crafted a composed innings. Delhi chased down 160 with ease and 13 balls to spare. Rahul stayed unbeaten on 57 runs from 42 balls. This marked his third half-century of the season. Moreover, he achieved a major milestone by becoming the fastest player to reach 5000 IPL runs. He did it in 130 innings, five fewer than previous record-holder David Warner.

Awkward Moment Follows the Match

After the match, Goenka walked onto the field and approached Rahul to congratulate him. Although Rahul shook hands with him, he did not engage in conversation. Instead, he walked away without a word. Shashwat Goenka, who followed his father, faced the same reaction. Rahul ignored him too. The father-son duo tried to hold him back, but the former LSG skipper clearly did not want to talk.

Goenka's Earlier Remarks Stir Controversy

Goenka had earlier hinted at his dissatisfaction with Rahul's attitude during an interview on Star Sports. He said he wanted players who prioritize team success over personal goals.

"It was a simple mindset to go in with players who have a mindset to win, who put the team first before their personal goals and personal aspirations and we wanted to retain as much as of core we could," said Goenka.

On the other hand, Rahul had already explained his side in a separate interview with the same platform back in November. He said he wanted a new environment that allowed him more freedom.

"The decision was made already. I don't know what the comments are but they must have come after the retentions were made. Just felt like I wanted to start fresh, I wanted to explore my options, and I wanted to play somewhere I can find some freedom and a team atmosphere would be something lighter, much more balanced, pressure is already very high in the IPL," Rahul said.

Delhi’s Winning Run Continues in Style

Delhi Capitals are on a strong run in IPL 2025. They have now won six of their first eight matches. This is the fifth time they’ve achieved that milestone in IPL history. The last time was in 2021. Interestingly, they reached the Play-Offs every time they achieved this record in the past.

Delhi started the season by winning four matches in a row. They lost to Mumbai Indians at home but bounced back with a dramatic win in a Super Over against Rajasthan Royals. Though they faced another defeat against Gujarat Titans, they returned to winning form by completing a season double over Lucknow Super Giants. Delhi now sit second on the points table. They are tied with Gujarat Titans in terms of wins but trail slightly due to a lower net run rate. Delhi Capitals will play their next match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru at home on April 27.