Sangakkara on Sooryavanshi: ‘I’m sure that he’ll get that call-up very, very soo – Kumar Sangakkara Backs Vaibhav Sooryavanshi for International Call-Up
A Rising Star Takes Center Stage
In the landscape of modern cricket, rarely does a talent emerge that demands immediate attention from the global stage. However, following the conclusion of the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL), the name on everyone’s lips is Vaibhav Sooryavanshi. The 15-year-old sensation has not only captivated spectators but has also earned the unwavering confidence of Rajasthan Royals coach Kumar Sangakkara.
Reflecting on the season after the Rajasthan Royals’ defeat in Qualifier 2 against the Gujarat Titans, Sangakkara did not mince his words regarding the youngster’s future. The legendary Sri Lankan wicketkeeper-batter is convinced that a call-up to the national side is imminent, citing Sooryavanshi’s remarkable ability to handle high-pressure environments at such a tender age.
Statistically Phenomenal
Sooryavanshi’s performance throughout the 2026 season was nothing short of historic. Accumulating 776 runs in just 16 innings, the teenager maintained a staggering strike rate of 237.30. Perhaps most impressive is his dominance through boundaries, with 684 of his total runs coming exclusively from fours and sixes. Such numbers are typically reserved for established international veterans, yet Sooryavanshi navigated the tournament with the poise of a seasoned professional.
Poise Under Pressure
The true test of a cricketer’s temperament often comes on surfaces that don’t favor the batter. In the high-stakes environment of Qualifier 2, held on a two-paced pitch in New Chandigarh, Sooryavanshi faced a ferocious spell of short-pitched bowling from the Gujarat Titans’ tall pace attack. While wickets tumbled around him, the 15-year-old displayed an uncanny ability to problem-solve, eventually crafting a brilliant 96 off 47 balls.
Sangakkara highlighted this specific trait as the differentiator. “With everything Vaibhav has shown against some of the best bowlers in the world, I think he’s more than ready to take on any challenge that you throw at him,” Sangakkara stated. “I’m sure that he’ll get that call-up very, very soon. He’s batted with a lot of maturity, he has shouldered the responsibility of that opening partnership so well for us this season.”
The Strategy for Success
When asked about how the coaching staff manages a talent so young yet so gifted, Sangakkara revealed a philosophy centered on clarity. The Rajasthan Royals’ approach involves minimal interference, allowing the player’s natural instincts to flourish. The coaching staff ensures the environment is free from unnecessary clutter, focusing instead on preparation and game-reading.
“We don’t clutter his mind too much,” Sangakkara explained. “He comes to all our team meetings, he contributes, he listens, and he does a lot of homework. He practises well and he reads bowlers well, he watches their videos and prepares himself really well. So we don’t want to put any unnecessary thoughts into his head. I think a clear mind, batting with that courage is exactly what we want to see of him.”
A Team of Resilience
The 2026 season was not without its challenges for the Rajasthan Royals. With key personnel like Sam Curran sidelined due to injury, and leaders like Riyan Parag and Ravindra Jadeja managing fitness concerns, the team was forced to adapt. Sangakkara expressed immense pride in how the younger recruits, such as Brijesh Sharma and Yash Raj Punja, transitioned into the senior setup.
The coach noted that the improvement from their ninth-place finish the previous season to their playoff run is a testament to the collective effort of the squad. Players like Dhruv Jurel, Donovan Ferreira, Jofra Archer, and Shubham Dubey were also highlighted for their contributions. Regarding Riyan Parag, Sangakkara praised his leadership in his first full season as captain, expressing optimism that the young skipper will continue to evolve and grow alongside his team.
“No one really probably gave us a chance to qualify when we started the campaign,” Sangakkara concluded. “But it just goes to show that when you work hard, you play some good cricket and you enjoy playing this game, you can make some special things happen.”
