Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, who gained prominence after scoring a century off 35 balls at the age of 14 in IPL 2025, has continued to impress in IPL 2026. His aggressive style of play has propelled him to new heights, currently ranking him as the fourth-highest run-scorer in the tournament and having briefly held the Orange Cap.
In a recent interview, former India and CSK off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin recommended that the BCCI consider giving the 15-year-old left-hander an opportunity in the upcoming tours to Ireland and Zimbabwe.
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s IPL 2026 Performance
So far, Sooryavanshi has amassed 254 runs in 7 matches with an outstanding strike rate of 220.86. He has achieved two half-centuries, both coming in a mere 15 balls.
This IPL season, Sooryavanshi has hit 26 fours and 20 sixes off 115 balls, averaging a boundary every 2.5 deliveries. Notably, 88.19% of his total runs have been scored through boundaries.
Ashwin expressed confidence in Sooryavanshi’s future, stating, «I have no doubt that Vaibhav will play for India. I think he will certainly do so. The key is to take him step by step. If you do that, he has a really long career ahead.»
Ashwin’s View on Sooryavanshi’s International Potential
When questioned about Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s potential success on the international stage, Ashwin believes the 15-year-old can excel with the right opportunities.
«This is Vaibhav’s second proper season in the IPL. Last year, he did reasonably well, and this year he has started well. I really like that kid and have my fingers crossed for him to do well,» Ashwin remarked.
He further suggested that exposure to international cricket would be beneficial for Sooryavanshi. «It’s not a bad idea to try him out in countries like Ireland and Zimbabwe. I think he will end up being successful. He’ll also get exposed to a lot of new conditions, which is good for him,» Ashwin added.
Ashwin’s Vision for Sooryavanshi’s Career
Ashwin highlighted Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s fearless batting and exceptional talent, noting his approach to facing bowlers irrespective of their reputation.
«He is a fabulous talent. He is clearly indicating that he’s playing the ball. It doesn’t matter to him who you are – if it’s in his range, it’s going. He’s an exceptional talent. When such talent meets opportunity, amazing things happen,» Ashwin explained.
He emphasized the importance of exposure for Sooryavanshi’s development: «For him, the more exposure he gets, the better he is going to become. I want to see him bat for the next 15–20 years.»
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has been a vital player for Rajasthan Royals, who are currently in second place in the IPL 2026 points table.
