One for the future is Vaibhav Sooryavanshi: Shreyas commends the “spectacular” RR star

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, a youthful prodigy for the Rajasthan Royals, was praised by Punjab Kings captain Shreyas Iyer, who called him a “spectacular talent” and predicted that he would be “one for the future” following his outstanding start to the Indian Premier League 2026 season.

Sooryavanshi, who scored 246 runs in six innings at an incredible strike rate of over 236, has become one of the tournament’s most thrilling stories at just 15. In addition to setting the tone for Rajasthan, his bold style at the top has attracted the attention of rivals throughout the league.

“He is a spectacular talent, and all the adjectives would be pretty much less for him,” Iyer said on Jiostar. “The way he has that bat flow, the rhythm and momentum he creates before the delivery, I think he is one for the future.”

Given his own impressive play this season, Iyer’s compliments are all the more meaningful. The Punjab captain, who has scored 208 runs in six innings, has led from the front while highlighting a philosophy based on individualism and self-belief, which he feels characterize Sooryavanshi’s ascent.

“Whenever I speak to players, my only message is just be yourself. Don’t try to emulate or mimic anyone,” Iyer said. “When you are fearless and flamboyant in your own way, you don’t have to copy anyone.”

That approach, Iyer added, has also played a key role in the success of Punjab’s top order, with Prabhsimran Singh and Priyansh Arya both crossing the 200-run mark this season. “When you tell these guys they are match-winners, it instils confidence in them,” he said.

The Punjab captain also reflected on his own journey, recalling a standout moment from IPL 2025 when he took on Jasprit Bumrah in a high-pressure encounter.

“It was completely instinctive. I was trying to hit him straight down the ground,” Iyer said. “When you are facing probably the best bowler in the world, you have to back your instincts.”

He pointed to clarity of mind and emotional control as key differentiators at the highest level. “If you show too many emotions, your heart rate fluctuates. When you are in control, you can stay clear and decisive about your goal.”