Former Mumbai Indians head coach Mark Boucher has criticised Delhi Capitals (DC) team management’s utilisation as they face batting struggles in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026. While KL Rahul has improved his strike rate exponentially, in last two innings, he has been dismissed cheaply in the powerplay overs. Boucher wants other batters to take the aggressive role around him so that he can take the innings deep. The former South Africa wicketkeeper-batter believes Boucher’s wicket was crucial in the clash against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR).
"KL Rahul's wicket was a crucial moment because he's the batter Delhi Capitals build their innings around. Ideally, you want him batting beyond the powerplay so he can control the tempo through the middle overs," Boucher said on JioHotstar.
"This is now the second time he has fallen around that phase while trying to take the game on. The aggressive role can be taken up by others around him, but Rahul’s value lies in going deep into the innings and managing momentum. From a team perspective, his wicket carries huge importance," he added.
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On May 8, Rahul lost his wicket to Kartik Tyagi as he tried to play a lofted shot over cover but the slower one got the better of him. He departed for a 14-ball 23. DC were 49/1 after five overs when he departed. In the middle overs, DC lost momentum. No boundary was scored for 38 balls after five wickets fell and DC managed to post a below par score of 142/8.
Rahul in race for orange cap
Rahul is by far DC's leading run-scorer in the season and a contender for orange cap as well. From 11 innings, he has scored 468 runs at an average of 46.80 and strike rate of 180. He scored an unbeaten 152 against Punjab Kings (PBKS) in a losing cause. He has three fifties in the season as well.
DC’s middle order lacks consistency
But, DC’s middle order has not been consistent enough. Sameer Rizvi has a couple of match-winning knocks, Tristan Stubbs have saved them from collapses, but they lack stability. Axar Patel’s lack of form has hurt them as well. Their bowling troubles also leaves no room for David Miller as Indian pacers and leg-spinner Kuldeep Yadav have struggled.
After their seventh loss of the tournament from 11 games, DC are almost out of playoffs race. They are already looking towards preparations for next season. Their next match is against PBKS in Dharamsala on May 11.