Former India cricketer Robin Uthappa has shared his opinion on young batter Vaibhav Sooryavanshi ahead of IPL 2026. He said the Rajasthan Royals opener may face tougher challenges in the upcoming season.
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi impressed many fans with his performances in the previous IPL season. However, Uthappa believes the young player could face a different test this year.
Uthappa said he has followed Vaibhav’s game closely over the past year. While praising his talent, he also suggested that luck played a role in some of his performances.
According to Uthappa, bowlers may now study his batting style more carefully. Once they understand his strengths and weaknesses, they could try to bowl in areas that trouble him.
“I have watched Vaibhav play over the last year. He is a talented player, but sometimes he has also had luck on his side. When the level becomes tougher and bowlers know where to bowl to him, things can change,” Uthappa said on Star Sports.
He also mentioned that IPL 2026 could become a learning phase for the young batter. Facing stronger bowling attacks may help him develop further.
Despite these concerns, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s recent performances have been impressive. His numbers from the previous IPL season drew attention across the cricket world.
He scored 252 runs in seven matches for Rajasthan Royals. The left handed batter maintained an average of 36 and an impressive strike rate of 206.55.
His performance included one century and one fifty. These innings helped him emerge as one of the most talked about young players in the tournament.
Vaibhav also performed strongly in the Under 19 ODI World Cup. In the final against England in Harare, he scored 175 runs from 80 balls to guide India to victory.
Former India all rounder Irfan Pathan expressed a more positive view. He said Vaibhav has shown consistency by scoring runs across different tournaments.
“After the IPL, he continued scoring runs wherever he played. That gives me confidence. I feel he can score another quick fifty or even a century,” Pathan said.
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi will now aim to prove himself again in IPL 2026. With strong opinions from former players, the young batter will be closely watched during the upcoming season.
