Kagiso Rabada
A strike bowler who defined an era of dominance for Delhi, Rabada was among the fastest to reach 50 IPL wickets.
Kagiso Rabada played for Delhi Capitals (formerly Delhi Daredevils) from 2017 to 2021, establishing himself as a pivotal figure in their bowling attack. Bought by the franchise in February 2017 for INR 50 million, he missed the entire 2018 season due to a back injury after being bought in the 2018 auction, and was retained ahead of the 2019 campaign. During his time with the team, he became the highest wicket-taker for Delhi Capitals in the 2019 season with 25 wickets and achieved the same feat in 2020 by taking 30 wickets across 17 matches, becoming the tournament's leading wicket-taker that year. His contributions were instrumental in helping Delhi Capitals qualify for the playoffs for the first time since 2012.
- Role
- Fast Bowler
- Affiliation
- Delhi Capitals (Former)
- Nationality
- South African
- Tenure Era
- 2017-2021
Verified Timeline
Lore & Background
Rabada's tenure with Delhi began in earnest in 2017 when he was acquired by the Delhi Daredevils. Despite missing the entire 2018 season due to a back injury after being bought in the 2018 auction, his return in 2019 marked a turning point for the franchise. He played 12 league matches before missing two matches due to workload management, yet still finished as the highest wicket-taker for Delhi and the second-highest overall that season. His performance in 2020 was even more remarkable; he claimed 30 wickets in just 17 matches, securing the title of highest wicket-taker for the entire IPL season. These achievements highlighted his consistency and ability to perform under pressure, making him indispensable to Delhi's strategy during their playoff runs.
In Their Own Story
In April 2023, while playing for Punjab Kings (having been bought in the 2022 mega auction), Rabada reached a monumental milestone: his 100th IPL wicket. This feat came in only his 64th match, earning him the distinction of being the fastest bowler in terms of matches to reach this landmark in the competition's history. Although he had moved on from Delhi by then, his earlier contributions laid the groundwork for such records. His journey with Delhi included moments of sheer brilliance, like his 2019 and 2020 seasons where he led wicket charts and propelled the team toward playoff contention. Each spell he bowled carried weight, often shifting momentum in crucial matches.
Reader's Guide
For fans watching Rabada during his Delhi days, every match felt charged with anticipation. His opening spells or death-over assignments were must-watch moments, characterized by relentless pace and pinpoint accuracy. Supporters at the Arun Jaitley Stadium would erupt whenever he dismissed a batter, celebrating each breakthrough as a collective victory. Beyond the field, Rabada engaged with the community through meet-and-greets, drawing crowds eager to connect with one of cricket's most feared fast bowlers. His presence elevated not just the team's performance but also the spirit of the fanbase, creating traditions around his performances that endure in Delhi Capitals' history.
Did You Know?
- Rabada was bought by Delhi Daredevils for INR 50 million in February 2017.
- He became the highest wicket-taker for Delhi Capitals in both the 2019 and 2020 IPL seasons.
- In 2020, he took 30 wickets in 17 matches, becoming the overall leading wicket-taker of that season.
- Rabada was among the fastest bowlers to reach 50 IPL wickets, though he does not hold the record for the fastest to 100.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Kagiso Rabada for Delhi Capitals?
He is a South African pacer who played for the squad between 2017 and 2021. His presence defined an era of dominance for the Delhi franchise.
What were his major achievements with the team?
Rabada topped their wicket charts in both 2019 and 2020, taking 30 scalps across 17 matches during the latter year. He also became the tournament's leading wicket-taker in 2020.
Why was he absent from the 2018 season?
Rabada missed the entire 2018 campaign because he was ruled out due to an injury sustained prior to the tournament. He returned to action and was retained by the team ahead of the 2019 campaign.
How much did the team pay to buy him initially?
Delhi Capitals purchased his contract in February 2017 for a fee of INR 50 million. This investment proved valuable as he quickly established himself within the squad.
What IPL records does he hold regarding wickets?
Rabada holds the distinction of being the quickest pacer to reach 50 and 100 career wickets in the tournament. These milestones underscore his rapid impact on the competition.