Irfan Pathan Questions GT Bodyline Tactics Against Teen Vaibhav Sooryavanshi In IPL 2026
Irfan Pathan questions GT's bodyline bowling targeting teen Sooryavanshi in IPL
Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan has expressed concern over the tactics used against 15-year-old Rajasthan Royals batter Vaibhav Sooryavanshi during the IPL 2026 Qualifier 2 against Gujarat Titans, questioning what he described as excessive short-pitched and bodyline bowling aimed at the teenage sensation.
Sooryavanshi once again delivered a standout performance despite his team ending on the losing side. The young batter struck a blistering 47-ball 96, following his earlier 97 in the Eliminator against Sunrisers Hyderabad. His innings helped Rajasthan Royals post a competitive total of 214/6 after opting to bat on a used pitch. However, Gujarat Titans chased down the target comfortably in 18.4 overs.
The teenager’s knock stood out for its maturity and composure under pressure, especially as Rajasthan’s top and middle order failed to fire. Sooryavanshi held the innings together against high-quality pace bowling from Kagiso Rabada and Mohammed Siraj, countering the intensity with an aggressive strike rate of 204.26 while ensuring his team reached a fighting total.
Also Read: IPL 2026: Irfan Pathan Calls Kuldeep Yadav’s Form A Major Concern
Reacting to the contest, Irfan Pathan took to social media platform X to criticise the approach used against the youngster, stating that “bodyline bowling to stop a 15-year-old… doesn’t fit well with me.” He added that while Sooryavanshi was playing at the highest level against experienced professionals, he viewed the strategy through a protective lens as well, calling it difficult to accept emotionally.
The match itself was dominated by Gujarat Titans’ top order, with Shubman Gill producing a masterclass innings of 104 off 53 balls. He shared a decisive 167-run opening partnership with Sai Sudharsan, who contributed 58 off 32 balls, as the duo dismantled the Rajasthan bowling attack to take control of the chase early.
With this win, Gujarat Titans advanced to the IPL 2026 final, continuing their impressive record since their debut season in 2022. For Rajasthan Royals, despite Sooryavanshi’s exceptional form, the defeat marked the end of their campaign, but the teenager’s back-to-back high-impact innings have firmly established him as one of the breakout talents of the tournament.
Also Read: Rajasthan Royals Crash Out Of IPL 2026 Final Race, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi Heartbroken
