Sooryavanshi's level of game awareness is remarkable at 15: AB de Villiers
New Delhi, May 28
Former South Africa batter and IPL great AB de Villiers heaped praise on teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, stating that the opener's game awareness at the age of just 15 is 'remarkable' after the Rajasthan Royals batter produced a breathtaking innings against Sunrisers Hyderabad in the IPL 2026 Eliminator.
The 15-year-old smashed a stunning 97 off just 29 balls to power Rajasthan Royals to a commanding total before they sealed a 47-run victory to enter Qualifier 2.
Reacting to the knock, de Villiers said what impressed him most was not just the shot-making but the maturity and calmness Sooryavanshi displayed in a high-pressure knockout game.
"What stood out most about Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's innings was his composure and clarity under pressure at just 15 years of age. Pat Cummins and Sunrisers Hyderabad kept trying different plans, constantly changing the field and mixing their lengths to disrupt his rhythm, but he stayed completely locked into his own bubble throughout the innings. That level of game awareness in a knockout match is remarkable for someone so young," de Villiers told JioStar.
Sooryavanshi's innings completely disrupted SRH's bowling plans. Despite skipper Cummins opening with defensive fields and yorker-heavy tactics, the teenager countered every move with fearless strokeplay as RR raced to 125 in just eight overs. De Villiers highlighted how the youngster appeared ready for every tactical adjustment SRH attempted during the innings.
"Whether they bowled short or tried to surprise him with fuller deliveries, he seemed prepared for every plan and was in control against all of them. Scoring 97 off just 29 balls in an Eliminator, while dominating all parts of the ground, was an extraordinary display of fearless batting and showed why he is already being spoken about alongside some of the most explosive players the IPL has seen," he added.
De Villiers was also impressed by the youngster's understanding of preparation and mental routines before matches, saying that aspect of his game reflects unusual maturity for a player of his age.
"What's most impressive about Vaibhav Sooryavanshi is the clarity he already has around his preparation and routines at just 15 years of age. Hearing him talk about visualising match-ups, studying bowlers, and mentally preparing before games shows a level of maturity that is very rare at that age," the RCB Hall of Famer said.
The former Royal Challengers Bengaluru star even compared Sooryavanshi's approach to legendary Australian opener Matthew Hayden, known for his strong visualisation routines during his playing days.
"It actually reminded me a little of Matthew Hayden, who used to spend time visualising on the pitch before batting. Over the course of his career, many of those routines will evolve, but the important thing is that Vaibhav is already building his own habits and processes instead of trying to copy others," the Proteas great stated.
According to de Villiers, individuality could prove crucial in shaping Sooryavanshi's long-term success at the highest level.
"The best players in the world eventually discover what works authentically for them, and Vaibhav already seems to have that understanding very early in his journey," he concluded.
RR will now face Gujarat Titans in Qualifier 2 on Friday at the same venue in New Chandigarh.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Yes, it was a great knock, but many players have had such moments. Consistency is the real test. Remember Prithvi Shaw? Let's not put too much pressure on the boy. Let him play naturally. But kudos to RR for backing him!
"Game awareness" at 15? That's incredible! Even many experienced players panic in high-pressure games like this. Sooryavanshi stayed calm and played like a true pro. The Matthew Hayden comparison is huge. Proud moment for Indian cricket! 🇮🇳🙌
As an Australian, I've seen many young talents come through. But this kid's ability to handle Pat Cummins' plans and dominate all parts of the ground is seriously impressive. AB's analysis about his visualisation routines is spot on—that's what separates the greats from the good. Will be watching his career closely!
Can we appreciate RR's scouting team? They keep finding gems like Jaiswal, Jurel, and now Sooryavanshi. The IPL is truly the best platform for young Indian talent. That said, I hope the BCCI protects him from burnout and too much cricket too early. Let him grow naturally.
Haydos was my favourite opener growing up, and to see a 15-year-old being compared to him for his mental preparation is mind-blowing! Sooryavanshi already has the right attitude. Just hope the fame doesn't get to his head. Stay grounded, champ! 🙏
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