Sanju Samson claims stakes for 13-year old prodigy in team India

Rajasthan Royals captain Sanju Samson has a bold prediction to make ahead of the upcoming season of the Indian Premier League. Samson made this prediction about the young batting sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi.

13-year-old Vaibhav Suryavanshi is the youngest player of IPL 2025. Sanju Samson is already in awe of his talent and backed the youngster to play for India soon. He spoke about the youngster's immense ball-hitting ability and feels that he is ready for the IPL stage.

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Sanju Samson's bold prediction for Vaibhav Suryavanshi

During a conversation on JioHotstar, Sanju Samson hailed Vaibhav Suryavanshi for his big-hitting ability. He called for some support to the youngster, which will help him perform on the big stage.

“Vaibhav (Suryavanshi) looks very confident; he was hitting sixes out of the ground at the academy. People were already talking about his power-hitting. What else can you ask for? It’s all about understanding his strengths, backing him, and being there for him like an elder brother," Samson said.

Further speaking on the youngster, Samson asked for a relaxed environment, which will help Suryavanshi to perform at his best. While praising his talent, the RR captain further claimed that the youngster might end up playing for India in some time.

“I think he looks ready to contribute. The key is to keep him in the best shape and provide a relaxed environment, which is something Rajasthan Royals is known for. We ensure a positive atmosphere in the dressing room and back our players," Samson noted.

"You never know—he might end up playing for India in a couple of years. I feel he is ready for the IPL. He looks capable of landing a few solid punches here and there. Let’s see what the future holds," he added.

Sanju Samson's advice for the youngster

Sanju Samson is now one of the senior members of Rajasthan Royals having played for the franchise almost from the beginning of his career. When asked about his advice for Suryavanshi, he replied that the youngsters are brave enough and know how to tackle the situations.

“The boys of today don’t lack confidence at all. They are very brave and understand the current situation of Indian cricket and the brand of cricket that needs to be played," the wicketkeeper-batter reckoned.

“For me, rather than giving advice, I prefer observing first—how a youngster wants to play his cricket, what he likes, and what kind of support he needs from me. Then, I work my way around that," said Samson.

Rajasthan Royals have roped in a strong coaching staff led by the head coach Rahul Dravid. Vikram Rathour is their bowling coach while Sairaj Bahutule is the team's spin bowling coach.

Vaibhav Suryavanshi's immense batting talent

Vaibhav Suryavanshi was signed by Rajasthan Royals for INR 1.10 crore during the IPL 2025 mega auction. At 13, the left-handed opener became the youngest player in the history to have an IPL contract.

The youngster from Bihar made headlines while playing for India Under-19 against Australia Under-19 when he smacked 104 off just 62 balls with 14 fours and 4 sixes. His big-hitting ability was on total display and he was soon selected for the Under-19 Asia Cup as well.