Vaibhav Sooryavanshi Shines in IPL 2026 Eliminator with Explosive Performance

In a thrilling IPL 2026 Eliminator, young sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi of Rajasthan Royals delivered a stunning performance, scoring 97 runs off just 29 balls. Aakash Chopra praised his fearless and controlled batting against a seasoned SRH bowling attack. This remarkable innings helped RR secure a 47-run victory, propelling them into the next qualifier against Gujarat Titans. Sooryavanshi's impressive season stats include 680 runs at an average of 45.33, showcasing his potential as a future star in cricket. Read on to find out more about this exciting match and Sooryavanshi's journey in the tournament.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 29, 2026, 02:06 IST

Aakash Chopra Lauds Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's Remarkable Innings

New Delhi [India] - Former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra has commended the young batting prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi of Rajasthan Royals (RR) for his audacious and well-controlled innings against Sunrisers Hyderabad during the IPL 2026 Eliminator on Wednesday.

Chopra observed that while Pat Cummins initially challenged Sooryavanshi with his yorkers, the young talent became a force to reckon with once he found his rhythm at the crease. He noted that despite the experienced bowling lineup of SRH, which included Cummins and Eshan Malinga, they were rendered ineffective by Sooryavanshi's aggressive batting style.

He highlighted that the quality, poise, and dominance displayed by Sooryavanshi, despite his young age, underscore why he is regarded as a remarkable talent.

The 15-year-old cricketer scored an impressive 97 runs off just 29 deliveries, featuring 12 sixes and five fours, leading his team to a total of 243/8 in this crucial match.

“Bowlers often devise strategies against Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, and Pat Cummins began with yorkers that initially restricted his scoring. However, once he settled in, the SRH bowlers appeared powerless. It was as if they were overwhelmed by a tsunami. When a player like Vaibhav is in such form, the only option left is to watch. SRH's bowling attack is seasoned, with Cummins being a World Cup champion. Despite his efforts, he had no solutions. Setting aside Sooryavanshi's age, the quality of his innings was exceptional. This was one of the finest counter-attacking performances by an opener in recent times. He played with total control against a formidable bowling attack, and the bowlers' plans simply fell apart. That’s the hallmark of a special player,” Chopra remarked on Star Sports.

Thanks to Sooryavanshi's stellar performance, RR secured a 47-run victory over SRH in the Eliminator, advancing to the second qualifier where they will compete against Gujarat Titans for a chance to reach the IPL 2026 final, where the defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) await.

Throughout this season, Sooryavanshi has amassed 680 runs in 15 innings, boasting an average of 45.33 and a striking rate of 242.85, which includes a century and four half-centuries, with a top score of 103. He has hit 55 fours and 65 sixes from 280 balls faced.