2018 Was The Best T20 Year For Me: KL Rahul Recalls His 14-Ball Fifty For Punjab Against Delhi Capitals

India wicketkeeper-batter KL Rahul relives his incredible 14-ball fifty, he scored in the 2018 IPL while playing for Punjab Kings (erstwhile Kings XI Punjab) and called it the best T20 year of his career. KL Rahul, who was acquired by Punjab for Rs 11 crore in the auction for IPL 2028, scored a match-winning 51 off 14 balls against Delhi Capitals, the tournament's fastest half century at the time, in his second match for the franchise as Punjab Kings snapped 64 runs in five overs in their chase of 167.

"I had just debuted in T20Is for India and scored that 100 in Miami against the West Indies, so I had some recent T20 runs and confidence behind me. It was a new franchise, and I was excited, especially after the high price tag they paid, which I hadn't expected. That season came with pressure, being a new team and all, but my mind was clear at that time.

Rahu led the PBKS run charts with over 650 runs with six half-centuries that included a few innings in the 90s. Together with Chris Gayle, Rahul formed a potent opening combination that took the attack to the opposition and he enjoyed the freedom given to him at the top of the batting order.

"I was confident in my game, knew what I had to do, and kept it simple. 2018 was probably the best T20 year for me. Expectations were mostly from Kings XI Punjab due to the high price tag, but beyond that, I was free to play my game, without feeling like I had to take responsibility. That allowed me to play with freedom, and while it was a great year personally, as a team, we struggled," Rahul said on Star Sports.

He further opened up about the memorable moments that shaped his journey from early struggles to embracing his unique game, inspired by legends like Rahul Dravid and Kane