Devdutt Padikkal on Vaibhav Sooryavanshi: ‘It Would Be Foolish to Copy Him’
Devdutt Padikkal has issued a strong opinion on rising star Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, declaring that attempting to copy the teenage sensation would be “foolish”. The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) batter praised Sooryavanshi’s unique style, explosive power, and consistency, emphasizing that his talent isn’t something that can be replicated.
A Rare Talent in Modern Cricket
At just 15 years old, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has taken the Indian Premier League (IPL) by storm in his second season, emerging as one of the most talked-about young players in the tournament. Representing the Rajasthan Royals, Sooryavanshi has amassed an incredible 579 runs in 13 matches, including a century and multiple half-centuries, all at a staggering strike rate of 236.
His performances have defied expectations, silencing early critics who labeled him a potential one-match wonder. Instead, he has delivered consistent, match-winning knocks that have drawn admiration from peers and veterans alike.
Padikkal’s Blunt Assessment
Speaking on Sooryavanshi’s impact, Devdutt Padikkal didn’t hold back. As a fellow southpaw and established IPL performer, Padikkal acknowledged the brilliance of the young star:
“What Vaibhav Sooryavanshi does is truly unique. At his age, to have that kind of power and explosiveness is special. It would be foolish for anyone to try to copy him. He’s a rare talent.”
Despite sharing the left-handed batting stance, Padikkal highlighted that their approaches to the game differ significantly. While Padikkal has evolved into a more aggressive player over the years, Sooryavanshi’s natural flair, timing, and fearless strokeplay set him apart from his generation.
Consistency Meets Explosiveness
Sooryavanshi’s numbers speak volumes. Scoring nearly 600 runs in a single IPL season at such a high strike rate is a feat few seasoned professionals achieve, let alone a 15-year-old. His ability to dominate bowling attacks without compromising on risk management has made him a vital cog in Rajasthan’s middle order.
His performances have sparked growing calls for national recognition. With India set to tour England later this year for a major white-ball series, speculation is mounting that selectors may consider fast-tracking the youngster into the senior squad.
Padikkal’s Own Form on the Rise
Padikkal, 25, hasn’t been silent either. Playing a crucial role for RCB, he has scored 412 runs this season at a strike rate of 173, including three half-centuries. His composed yet aggressive batting has reinforced his case for greater opportunities across formats.
His strong domestic record and IPL performances earned him a spot in India’s Test squad for the upcoming one-off Test against Afghanistan — a testament to his growing stature in Indian cricket.
The Future of Indian Cricket
The rise of Sooryavanshi represents more than just individual brilliance — it signals a new wave of fearless, technically sound young batters emerging in Indian cricket. His self-belief, combined with Padikkal’s seasoned perspective, offers a compelling contrast between youth and experience.
As the IPL continues to serve as a launchpad for future stars, one thing is clear: Vaibhav Sooryavanshi isn’t just playing cricket — he’s redefining what’s possible at a remarkably young age. And as Devdutt Padikkal rightly put it, trying to copy him isn’t just difficult — it’s pointless.
