Vaybhav Sooryavanshi, a 15-year-old player for Rajasthan Royals (RR), is making waves in the current IPL 2026 season with his fearless batting. He is consistently hitting bowlers for boundaries and gaining significant attention after almost every match.
The Rajasthan Royals opener’s powerful hitting has impressed everyone, leading to discussions about his potential future with the Indian national team. Some have even humorously speculated if his bat contains an AI chip due to the ease with which he executes his shots.
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi sparks AI bat debate after explosive IPL 2026 form
Pakistani cricket analyst Nauman Niaz playfully suggested that an AI chip in his bat might be responsible for his massive sixes.
This topic was later brought up by presenter Jatin Sapru during a conversation with former Indian cricketers Aakash Chopra and Mohammad Kaif on Star Sports.
Sooryavanshi currently leads the Orange Cap standings with 579 runs in 13 innings for Rajasthan Royals, boasting an impressive strike rate of 236.32. His outstanding season includes one century and three half-centuries so far.
Aakash Chopra compares Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s rise to “AI-powered talent”
Aakash Chopra humorously commented on the unpredictable advancements of artificial intelligence and, in a similar vein, the unknown potential of Vaibhav Sooryavanshi. He drew a parallel between the young prodigy’s rapid ascent and the early career of legendary batsman Sachin Tendulkar, who also made a significant impact at a young age.
On the show ‘Out or Not Out’, Chopra stated, «If you can ask such a question (on AI chips), then the answer is yes. The thing about AI is that we don’t know where it can go. We think there’s a ceiling, but five years later, we realize it has gone even further.»
He further elaborated, «Vaibhav Sooryavanshi is that AI model. We saw Sachin Tendulkar play at 15 too, and we know how far he went. But the way this kid has started, I genuinely have no idea how far he can go. That’s why I call him AI.»
Mohammad Kaif shuts down AI bat theory around Vaibhav Sooryavanshi
In contrast, Mohammad Kaif attributed Vaibhav’s success entirely to his talent and dedication. Kaif emphasized that no technology can substitute for genuine skill in batting. He commended the young player’s commitment to honing his craft since childhood and urged observers to appreciate his batting rather than resorting to unfounded theories.
During the same discussion, Kaif remarked, «What advantage does it add to the bat? Let’s assume there is an AI chip in it—even then, can someone guarantee a hundred? If they can, I’ll quit commentary. Broaden the bat, make it longer, do whatever you want, but if someone bats this well, you still have to respect the skill.»
He added, «The bat has no role to play here. It’s all about the skill set. He has been batting since the age of seven and has worked hard to improve his skills. I fold my hands. Please give the boy credit. He’s playing brilliantly and dominating attacks.»
