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Sooryavanshi's "Play the Ball" Philosophy Powers Rajasthan Royals to Victory

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi led a powerful chase for the Rajasthan Royals with a stunning 78-run innings, setting up a six-wicket win over RCB. The teenager emphasized his philosophy of playing the ball based on its merit rather than being intimidated by the bowler's reputation. He credited his father and mentor Romi sir for guiding him to stay focused on his game and the long journey ahead. Despite being disappointed at getting out, his knock had already put his team in a commanding position.

Key Points: Sooryavanshi on Facing Top Bowlers: "Play the Ball, Not the Bowler"

  • Match-winning 78-run knock
  • Dismantled RCB's bowling attack
  • Credits father and mentors for guidance
  • Focus on basics and personal strengths
  • Disciplined approach to a long journey
2 min read

IPL 2026: I try to play the ball, not the bowler, says Sooryavanshi on facing Bhuvneshwar, Hazlewood and Bumrah

Teenager Vaibhav Sooryavanshi reveals his mindset after a match-winning IPL knock, crediting his father and mentors for keeping him grounded.

"I try to play the ball and not the bowler. - Vaibhav Sooryavanshi"

Guwahati, April 11

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi credited his disciplined approach and focus on basics after a match-winning performance, saying he looks to "play the ball and not the bowler" even against top names, while emphasising guidance from his father and mentors to stay grounded and committed to the long journey ahead.

Sooryavanshi led a powerful attack to kick off Rajasthan Royals' chase, easily dismantling Royal Challengers Bengaluru's bowling with bold shots as hosts continue to be on top with a six-wicket win over RCB.

"I just try to back my strengths and execute what I have done in practice. Of course, in the back of the mind, you know who the bowler is. But then, I try to play the ball and not the bowler," said Sooryavanshi after the match.

The teenager played with stunning audacity, his clean, powerful swings sending the ball racing to the fence at will, with 15 of his 26 deliveries fetching boundaries.

By the time he miscued one off Krunal Pandya, the damage had already been done, putting Rajasthan Royals firmly in control.

He first smashed Bhuvneshwar Kumar for back-to-back boundaries and then led attack on Josh Hazlewood with 19 runs over.

"My father keeps on guiding me. Here my guardian is Romi sir. They keep on telling me that the journey is long. So, I have to be focused on my game and not anything else."

Visibly dissappointed after getting out in 78, Sooryavanshi already took Rajasthan to a comfortable position with Dhruv Jurel, who went on ti win the match for the team.

"If I stay in the middle, I know that we can reach the target an over or two earlier. So, if I get out playing a loose shot, it disappoints me."

- IANS

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Reader Comments

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Sarah B
Taking on Bhuvi and Hazlewood like that shows incredible talent. But I hope the media doesn't hype him too much too soon. He seems grounded, which is good. The real test will be consistency over a full season.
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Vikram M
Bas yaar, what an innings! 15 boundaries in 26 balls is just carnage. The way he treated world-class bowlers was a treat to watch. RR has found a gem. Hope he gets a chance for the national team soon.
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Rohit P
Respect for mentioning his father and mentor. In our culture, that guru-shishya parampara is everything. Talent is common, but this humility and focus on the "long journey" is what separates champions from flash-in-the-pan players.
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Priya S
He got out on 78 and was still disappointed! That's the winning mentality we need. Not satisfied with just a good score, wants to finish the game. More power to you, Sooryavanshi! 💪
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Michael C
As a neutral fan, it's refreshing to see a young player with such clear process-oriented thinking. The IPL pressure is immense, and his mental game seems as strong as his batting. Great for the sport.

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