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Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's unbelievable IPL 2026 season has made him the newest sensation of Indian cricket. At the age of 15, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has won millions of hearts across the world with his fearless batting in the IPL 2026 for Rajasthan Royals (RR).
Even many are already wondering whether the teenage batting sensation could become the next superstar of Indian cricket. As comparisons with Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli continue to grow, IPL chairman Arun Dhumal has shared his thoughts on Vaibhav’s incredible rise and the impact he has already made on the world’s biggest T20 league.
Arun Dhumal makes big statement on Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's impact on IPL
Arun Dhumal admitted that the breathtaking batting performances of Vaibhav Sooryavanshi this season have certainly boosted the brand value of the Indian Premier League, and such talented players are extremely valuable for the tournament.
The IPL chairman described Vaibhav as a fresh face who has brought new energy to the tournament after the years of domination of Indian legends like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and MS Dhoni.
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Arun Dhumal was quoted as saying by Revsportz: “For sure. We have seen chants for Dhoni, Virat, and Rohit echo around stadiums wherever they play. These kinds of stars definitely have huge traction with fans. He has been a breath of fresh air, and it augurs very well for the tournament going forward. He has time on his side. He is only 15 and can contribute for many years to come.”
Arun Dhumal credits IPL for fast-tracking Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's rise like Virat Kohli
Dhumal also highlighted how Indian cricket has benefited from players who started their careers at a young age. Furthermore, the chairman credited the IPL for helping young talents grow faster than ever before, citing how Vaibhav was never seen intimidated by the world-class bowlers in IPL 2026.
He added, “We have examples such as Sachin and Virat, who started early and enjoyed long careers. Virat is probably fitter now than he was before (laughs). That is why a great deal of credit should go to the IPL for exposing young players to the best bowling attacks in the world.
Before the IPL, players would largely play domestic cricket until making their international debut. One of the IPL’s biggest achievements has been bridging the gap between domestic and international cricket.”
However, the IPL chairman refused to single out a team he is supporting, saying he is just “supporting good cricket."
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IPL Chairman avoids Virat Kohli comparison, hails Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's explosive batting
When asked whether Virat Kohli could pass the baton to Vaibhav Sooryavanshi the way Lionel Messi's legacy is being carried forward by Lamine Yamal in football, Dhumal did not entertain that comparison. He shifted the focus to Vaibhav's fearless batting and extraordinary talent.
The IPL boss highlighted how the 15-year-old plays without any fear, no matter who is bowling at him, and the young batter continued to play attacking cricket and backed his natural game. He also pointed out that Vaibhav's explosive style of batting has already made it clear that he has something special.
Dhumal signed off by saying, “It is a treat to watch this young boy play so fearlessly. It does not matter whether Jasprit Bumrah or Pat Cummins is bowling to him; he keeps his eyes fixed on the ball and looks to clear the boundary. Yashasvi Jaiswal is also an exceptional talent across formats. In one game, Yashasvi scored 29 off 29 deliveries while Vaibhav scored 97 off 29 deliveries. That says it all.”
