Teen Sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi Powers Rajasthan Royals to Victory in IPL Eliminator

15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's explosive innings led Rajasthan Royals to a 47-run victory over Sunrisers Hyderabad in IPL 2026 Eliminator, securing a spot in Qualifier 2. With a stunning 97 off 29 balls, Sooryavanshi broke records and impressed all, including SRH Assistant Coach James Franklin.

In a thrilling display of youthful brilliance, 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi delivered an astonishing performance against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in the IPL 2026 Eliminator, propelling Rajasthan Royals to a commanding 47-run victory at Maharaja Yadavindra International Stadium. His electrifying innings of 97 runs, crafted off just 29 deliveries with 12 massive sixes and five potent fours, ensured Rajasthan posted an imposing total of 243/8 in the knockout clash.

Sunrisers Hyderabad's Assistant Coach, James Franklin, lauded the young sensation's batting prowess, expressing astonishment at his extraordinary talent. Speaking to the media post-match, Franklin remarked, "I don’t think anyone’s ever seen a talent like this. It's freakish what he's doing at the moment…To think that he's potentially got 25 years left in a career is quite scary. And he's only going to get better. He's only going to get stronger." Franklin also discussed SRH’s strategy against Sooryavanshi, emphasizing the challenges faced by their bowlers against his dynamic batting style.

Sooryavanshi’s performance saw him surpass West Indies legend Chris Gayle's record for most sixes in an IPL season, amassing 65 sixes to top the charts this year with a whopping strike rate of 242. In the chase, Sunrisers faltered early, reduced to 57/4 during the powerplay, largely due to Jofra Archer's lethal bowling that dismantled their top order. Rajasthan Royals now advance to face Gujarat Titans in Qualifier 2, while reflecting on Sunrisers’ campaign, Franklin praised the emergence of young talents and overall team performance despite the early tournament exit.