The Indian Premier League (IPL) has a way of unveiling new stars and catapulting them to stardom overnight. As the 2026 season got underway, Rajasthan Royals’ Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has already made a name for himself, captivating fans and pundits alike with his electrifying performances. But what makes him tick, and how does his coach Kumar Sangakkara view the young sensation? In an exclusive interview, Sangakkara shed light on Sooryavanshi’s journey, skills, and what sets him apart.
From Humble Beginnings to IPL Stardom
Sooryavanshi’s rise to fame began in the domestic circuit, where he consistently impressed with his batting prowess. Sangakkara, who has been instrumental in shaping the young cricketer’s skills, credits Sooryavanshi’s dedication and work ethic for his rapid progress. ‘Vaibhav has always been a special player, not just a special project,’ Sangakkara emphasized. ‘He has the ability to adapt to any situation, whether it’s a high-pressure game or a low-scoring contest.’ The Rajasthan Royals coach believes that Sooryavanshi’s ability to stay calm under pressure is a key factor in his success.
Sooryavanshi’s impressive stats in the IPL have only added to his reputation, with a strike rate of over 150 and a century in just his fifth match. Sangakkara attributes Sooryavanshi’s rapid growth to his willingness to learn and take feedback. ‘Vaibhav is always eager to improve and work on his weaknesses. He has a great attitude and a strong work ethic, which sets him apart from other players,’ Sangakkara said.
What Makes Sooryavanshi Special?
Sooryavanshi’s ability to dominate any bowling attack has been a topic of discussion among cricket fans and experts. Sangakkara attributes this to Sooryavanshi’s impressive footwork, which allows him to play a wide range of shots. ‘Vaibhav has the ability to rotate the strike and play attacking cricket, which makes him a nightmare for opposition bowlers,’ Sangakkara explained. Additionally, Sooryavanshi’s ability to stay focused and composed under pressure has earned him the respect of his teammates and opponents alike.
But what sets Sooryavanshi apart from other young cricketers is his ability to learn from his mistakes. Sangakkara believes that Sooryavanshi’s willingness to learn and take feedback has been instrumental in his growth as a player. ‘Vaibhav has a great ability to analyze his game and work on his weaknesses. He is always looking to improve and that’s what makes him special,’ Sangakkara said.
The Future of Indian Cricket
As Sooryavanshi continues to impress with his performances, the question on everyone’s mind is whether he has the potential to become a long-term solution for India’s middle-order woes. Sangakkara believes that Sooryavanshi has the talent and the dedication to make it to the Indian team. ‘Vaibhav has the potential to become a world-class batsman, and I have no doubt that he will continue to make a name for himself in the years to come,’ Sangakkara said.
As the IPL 2026 season continues, fans and pundits alike will be keeping a close eye on Sooryavanshi’s performances. With his impressive stats and Sangakkara’s backing, it’s clear that Sooryavanshi is a player to watch out for in the future of Indian cricket.
The Next Big Thing has finally arrived in Indian cricket, and it’s Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s time to shine. With his incredible talent, dedication, and work ethic, he is sure to make a lasting impact on the sport and leave a mark that will be remembered for years to come.
