“Teams Were Planning For Him Before He Batted”: Sachin Explains Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s Impact

New Delhi: Fifteen-year-old batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has earned praise from cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar, who believes the youngster’s influence during IPL 2026 went far beyond the remarkable number of runs he scored.
After announcing himself to the cricketing world with a stunning 35-ball century in IPL 2025, Sooryavanshi entered his second season facing heightened expectations and increased scrutiny from opponents. Instead of slowing down, the Rajasthan Royals prodigy elevated his game to another level.
The young batter finished the season with a staggering 776 runs in 16 matches, becoming the only player in the tournament to cross the 750-run mark despite competition from some of the world’s best international batters.
Reflecting on the teenager’s success, Tendulkar noted that Sooryavanshi’s impact was evident even before he arrived at the crease. According to the batting icon, opposition teams were constantly preparing strategies to counter him, while fans eagerly awaited his arrival whenever Rajasthan Royals played.
Tendulkar also highlighted the youngster’s fearless approach in high-pressure knockout matches, pointing out that his aggressive intent remained unchanged during crucial encounters such as the Eliminator and Qualifier. He added that Sooryavanshi’s presence appeared to inspire confidence throughout the Rajasthan Royals lineup.
The teenager’s extraordinary rise has now attracted academic interest as well. Indian Institute of Management Indore has announced plans to conduct a detailed case study on Sooryavanshi’s journey and achievements.
The research will examine several aspects of elite sporting success, including talent development, mental toughness, discipline, leadership qualities and long-term athlete growth. The institute aims to explore how exceptional young athletes manage early success and the factors that contribute to sustained excellence.
IIM Indore Director Himanshu Rai said Sooryavanshi’s story represents much more than cricketing achievement. He described it as a case study in human potential, resilience and the importance of a supportive ecosystem in nurturing extraordinary talent.
With record-breaking performances already behind him and growing recognition both on and off the field, Sooryavanshi is rapidly emerging as one of Indian cricket’s most exciting young stars, with his journey now being studied as a model of sporting excellence and youth development.