Kumar Sangakkara, the legendary Sri Lankan cricketer and mentor of Rajasthan Royals in the Indian Premier League, has heaped praise on young Indian batter Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, stating that the teenager is equipped to handle the pressures of fame and the spotlight. Sangakkara, who has observed Sooryavanshi closely during the IPL season, believes the youngster's temperament sets him apart.
Sangakkara's Assessment of Sooryavanshi's Mental Strength
According to Sangakkara, Sooryavanshi's ability to remain unaffected by external distractions such as fame and flashy lifestyles will be crucial to his long-term success. The former Sri Lankan captain noted that many young players struggle with sudden attention, but Sooryavanshi seems unfazed. “He will handle attention well; fame and flash don’t affect him,” Sangakkara said in an interaction.
Sangakkara further predicted that Sooryavanshi is not just a future star for India but could become a prominent figure in world cricket. “He will be a force not just for India but also for world cricket,” Sangakkara added, emphasizing the batter's potential to make a global impact.
Sooryavanshi's IPL Journey
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, a right-handed opening batsman, made his IPL debut for Rajasthan Royals in the 2026 season. The 19-year-old from Bihar impressed with his composed strokeplay and ability to anchor innings. In his debut season, he scored 342 runs in 12 matches at an average of 34.20, including three half-centuries. His performances earned him a spot in the India A squad for the upcoming tour of England.
Sangakkara, who has worked closely with Sooryavanshi in the Royals' setup, highlighted the youngster's work ethic and adaptability. “He is very grounded and understands that cricket is a game of consistency. He doesn't get carried away by a few good performances,” Sangakkara said.
Comparisons and Future Prospects
Sooryavanshi has drawn comparisons to Indian batting greats due to his elegant technique and calm demeanor. However, Sangakkara cautioned against burdening him with expectations. “We should let him grow at his own pace. He has the right mindset, and the support system around him will help him navigate the challenges,” he added.
The young batter is expected to be part of India's plans for the 2028 ICC Cricket World Cup, with selectors keen on building a core group of young players. Sooryavanshi's ability to handle pressure will be tested in the coming years, but Sangakkara's endorsement underscores his readiness.
