"We will try to take him out early": GT Assistant Coach Parthiv Patel on Vaibhav Sooryavanshi ahead of IPL Qualifier 2
New Chandigarh, May 28
Gujarat Titans' Assistant Coach Parthiv Patel praised Rajasthan Royals Vaibhav Sooryavanshi for his impressive form ahead of the Indian Premier League 2026 Qualifier 2, while making it clear that GT are preparing specific strategies to counter him.
Patel said GT have closely studied videos of the young batter and, like other teams, is focused on dismissing him early in the match.
However, he kept the exact plans under wraps, saying their execution on the field would determine the outcome.
Gujarat Titans will battle Rajasthan Royals in Qualifier two on Friday for a spot in the final against defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). Patel was speaking to the reporters on the eve of GT's clash against RR in New Chandigarh.
"I am feeling good about the way he is batting. Hopefully, we will try to take him out early in the game. As all the teams are planning, we have seen the videos. Hopefully, we will be able to execute our plan. But what it is, we will be able to tell you when we are on the ground," Patel told the reporters.
"He has been a phenomenal talent, just the way he has been playing. It's great to see. From the opposition's point of view, we hope that he doesn't get going tomorrow," Patel added.
In this season, Sooryavanshi has been in sensational form, smashing 680 runs in 15 innings at an average of 45.33 and a strike rate of 242.85, including a century and four fifties, with a best score of 103. He has smashed 55 fours and 65 sixes in 280 balls faced.
— ANI
Reader Comments
GS was right to praise him but also smart to keep plans vague. IPL pressure is real - let's see if Vaibhav handles this mind game. My gut says he scores another fifty tomorrow. He's got that X-factor, reminds me of young Sehwag with his fearless approach!
Classic pre-match banter. Every team says they've studied the videos and have a plan - execution is everything. GT's bowling attack is strong but Sooryavanshi's been unstoppable. Should be a cracker of a match in New Chandigarh!
Parthiv Patel knows a thing or two about batting - he's been there. Respect for Vaibhav's talent but honestly, GT should focus on their own batting too. They've been inconsistent this season. Qualifier pressure brings out the best or worst in teams. Let's see who holds their nerve!
Love how every team is now obsessed with taking out Vaibhav early! That's what happens when you smash 65 sixes in a season. GT better not underestimate RR's other batters though. Samson and Jaiswal can also be dangerous on their day. This is going to be a thriller! 🏏💪
YouTube videos and analysis only take you so far. Vaibhav has been playing out of his skin - 45 average with 242 strike rate is phenomenal. GT need to be creative with their bowling changes. Rashid Khan's experience could be key. Exciting times for Indian cricket! 🇮🇳
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