A record-breaking knock from teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has sparked widespread discussion in the Indian Premier League (IPL), after his explosive 93 off 38 balls helped Rajasthan Royals defeat Lucknow Super Giants and keep their playoff hopes alive at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium.

The 14-year-old began cautiously in the match on Tuesday evening, managing just five runs off his first eight deliveries as he struggled to find timing early on. However, once settled, Sooryavanshi unleashed a dominant display of power-hitting, eventually racing to a 23-ball half-century and finishing just seven runs short of a century in a blistering innings that shifted the momentum firmly in Rajasthan’s favour.

Beyond the sheer volume of runs, it was the evolution in his shot selection that drew attention from experts. Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan highlighted a noticeable expansion in Sooryavanshi’s range, particularly his improved play on the off-side. Known largely for his dominance on the leg side, the young batter showcased greater control through the covers and even executed a well-timed upper-cut over third man, indicating a rapidly developing all-round attacking game.

Also Read: Vaibhav Sooryavanshi Pauses Interview To Fulfil Australian Great’s Selfie Request

Pathan, speaking on JioHotstar, praised the maturity in Sooryavanshi’s innings and suggested that the youngster’s growing versatility makes him even more dangerous. He noted that bowlers who once tried to restrict him on the leg side now face pressure across all areas of the field, making him increasingly difficult to contain once he gets into rhythm.

The performance also placed Sooryavanshi on the verge of a major IPL milestone, as he became the youngest batter to hit 50 sixes in a single season, reaching 53 maximums in IPL 2026. With one league match still remaining for Rajasthan Royals, he now stands within striking distance of Chris Gayle’s long-standing record of 59 sixes in a season, set in 2012 during his time with Royal Challengers Bengaluru.

Pathan went as far as to compare the intimidation factor of Sooryavanshi’s hitting to that of Gayle in his prime, stating that bowlers are beginning to fear him in a similar way. Rajasthan Royals will play their final league-stage fixture against Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede Stadium on May 24, where Sooryavanshi will have one last opportunity to chase down the historic record.

Also Read: Vaibhav Sooryavanshi AI Chip Debate Resurfaces After IPL 2026 Performances