Rajasthan Royals head coach Rajasthan Royals has sparked fresh debate over young batter Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s readiness for international cricket after strongly hinting that the teenager is “more than ready” for a potential India call-up following a standout IPL 2026 season. His remarks came after Rajasthan Royals were knocked out by Gujarat Titans in Qualifier 2, ending their campaign just short of the final.
Speaking at the post-match press conference, former Sri Lanka captain Kumar Sangakkara was asked whether Sooryavanshi is prepared for senior international cricket. While acknowledging that no player’s readiness can be fully judged until they actually play at the highest level, Sangakkara offered a strong endorsement of the youngster’s ability and temperament based on his performances this season.
Sooryavanshi, who emerged as one of the breakout stars of IPL 2026, ended the tournament with a remarkable 776 runs in 16 matches and was among the leading contenders for the Orange Cap. His consistency at the top of the order, combined with his ability to handle high-pressure situations against world-class bowling attacks, has made him one of the most talked-about young talents in Indian cricket.
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Sangakkara praised the batter’s maturity and composure, noting that he handled responsibility exceptionally well throughout the season. He also highlighted Sooryavanshi’s preparation routines, including studying opposition bowlers, attending team meetings, and maintaining a disciplined training approach, all of which contributed to his successful campaign in a highly competitive tournament.
The Rajasthan Royals coach also addressed concerns about managing the pressures of social media and expectations around a teenage player, saying the team has adopted a careful approach to keep Sooryavanshi mentally clear and focused. He added that the support staff ensures he is not overwhelmed with unnecessary pressure, allowing him to play with freedom and confidence.
Sooryavanshi’s performances have now intensified discussions around a possible India debut, with fans and cricket experts closely watching the national selection pipeline. While official decisions rest with the Board of Control for Cricket in India, Sangakkara’s public backing has added momentum to calls for the youngster’s inclusion, marking him as one of the most exciting prospects in Indian cricket’s next generation.
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