MS Dhoni and KL Rahul (Agency photo)
Delhi Capitals’ KL Rahul has downplayed his latest personal achievement after overtaking MS Dhoni in the all-time run-scorers list in the Indian Premier League, insisting that the team’s success remains his ultimate goal.Speaking on JioStar’s Superstars show, Rahul admitted that he was not aware of the feat initially and clarified what really mattered to him.“I didn’t even realize that I had surpassed Mahi bhai in the list of all-time run-scorers of the Indian Premier League,” Rahul said.“Honestly, the big achievement I would like to match with MS Dhoni is his five IPL titles that he won with CSK.”Rahul stressed that while the odd numbers are rewarding, they are not his primary focus.“When you have a long career, personal accomplishments feel special. They tell you that your hard work and sacrifices have paid off,” he said.“But at the end of the day, cricket is a team sport. You want to win trophies. You want to be part of successful teams. That’s always been my goal.”He also stressed his commitment to delivering every season, regardless of the franchise it represents.“Every season, I do my best to win the Indian Premier League, no matter which team I play for. This is what is most important to me,” Rahul added.“Personal achievements are good, they confirm to me that I am on the right path.
But what makes me really happy is winning as many awards as MS Dhoni.”Rahul’s comments come after he surpassed Dhoni’s tally of 5,528 runs to become the fifth-highest run-scorer in the history of the Indian Premier League. He now has 5,579 runs from 152 matches and 143 innings, at an average of 46.88 at a strike rate of 138.37, with six centuries and 42 fifties.The 2026 season saw Rahul at an elite level. He scored 433 runs in nine matches at an average of 54.13 and an impressive strike rate of 185.84.His campaign was also filled with record-breaking performances. Rahul became the third cricketer to score more than 150 scores in the history of the Indian Premier League, while also recording the highest individual score by an Indian in the tournament. He hit the fastest century ever for Delhi Capitals and now holds the franchise record for the highest individual score.Despite Rahul’s brilliance, Delhi Capitals have struggled for consistency. The team currently ranks sixth in the points table with only four wins from nine matches.For Rahul, the message remains clear. Personal accomplishments may keep coming, but the pursuit of accolades is what defines success.