Kumar Sangakkara, the director of cricket for Rajasthan Royals, lashed out at Sam Curran and shared his thoughts on the team's season after their IPL Qualifier 2 match. Sangakkara heaped praise on young sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi following another fearless innings. The 17-year-old has been a standout performer for RR in IPL 2026, showcasing remarkable composure and maturity beyond his years.
Sangakkara on Vaibhav Sooryavanshi
Sangakkara spoke glowingly about the teenager's fearless batting approach and ability to handle pressure. He noted that Sooryavanshi's performances have been instrumental in RR's campaign. "Vaibhav has shown incredible maturity. He doesn't get flustered by the situation and plays his natural game. That's why we believe he is ready for bigger challenges in the future," Sangakkara said.
Criticism of Sam Curran
Sangakkara also lashed out at Sam Curran for his comments earlier in the season. The RR mentor questioned Curran's remarks about the team's strategy and emphasized the importance of sticking together as a unit. "We don't need external noise. Our focus is on our process and players," Sangakkara added.
RR's Season Reflection
Reflecting on RR's season, Sangakkara acknowledged the ups and downs but expressed pride in the team's fight. "We have a young squad that has learned a lot. Every match has been a learning experience. We are building for the future," he said. The Royals have relied heavily on their young Indian core, with Sooryavanshi leading the charge.
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's Impact
Sooryavanshi has become the biggest crowd-puller in IPL 2026, drawing comparisons to some of the league's greats. His fearless batting and ability to perform under pressure have made him a fan favorite. In Qualifier 2, he played a crucial knock that kept RR in the hunt for a spot in the final.
Teammate Dhruv Jurel recently revealed what makes Sooryavanshi special. "He has a clear mind and backs his abilities. That's rare for someone his age," Jurel said. Former cricketers like James Franklin have also hailed the youngster's talent, calling him a future star.
As Rajasthan Royals look ahead, Sangakkara remains optimistic about the team's prospects. With a blend of experienced players and young talents like Sooryavanshi, RR are poised for sustained success in the IPL.
