'KL Rahul Is Like An Elder Brother': Abishek Porel Reflects On Mentorship, IPL Growth & Admiring Virat Kohli As Kid

Abishek Porel, the promising wicketkeeper-batter for Delhi Capitals, has opened up about the pivotal role KL Rahul has played in his development, calling the senior cricketer “like an elder brother” in the dressing room. Speaking on Ranveer Allahbadia’s podcast, the youngster credited Rahul's calm demeanor and thoughtful advice as key influences on his approach to the game.

He said, “He (Rahul) is like my elder brother. He is very calm and doesn’t speak a lot, and whenever he does, it’s the appropriate things that he says. I liked his calmness, especially the way he handles pressure,”

He added,“Whatever position he is asked to bat in, he delivers. He is an X-factor player. He delivers in whichever situation he is put in. He has explained to me that for him, it is planning that matters to handle such circumstances," Porel added.

Abhishek Poral on being an RCB supporter

Despite growing up in Chandannagar, West Bengal, where allegiance to Kolkata Knight Riders might be expected, Porel revealed he had a deep admiration for Royal Challengers Bengaluru during his childhood, largely because of his love for Virat Kohli’s game and fitness.

He said,“Yes, I was a KKR fan, but I was a fan of RCB as well, because I liked Virat Kohli’s fitness at that time. I still remember when I came to watch RCB’s match to see Kohli. I came through, bumping into people like that. So, I love RCB. AB de Villiers, Chris Gayle, Kohli, I am talking about that time,”

Reflecting on how far he's come, Porel still finds it surreal to be sharing space with the cricketing icons he once idolized. “I never thought that I would be able to meet Virat bhai or Mahi bhai. I had no expectations,” he admitted.

Abhishek Poral's IPL career

After bursting onto the IPL scene with a standout debut season in 2024, he continued to impress in the ongoing IPL 2025 campaign. Porel scored 327 runs in IPL 2024 at a strike rate of 159.51 across all 14 matches, which secured him a spot among Delhi’s retained players this season, with the franchise investing Rs 4 crore in the young talent.

The youngster from West Bengal started the IPL 2025 season with an impactful 49 off 37 balls against Rajasthan Royals, forging a crucial 63-run stand with Rahul. He remains the second highest scorer for the team and behind KL Rahul with 301 runs.