Watch: “Can he handle…” – Former India star questions Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s future after brilliant IPL 2026 performances

Vaibhav Sooryvanshi, on his very first delivery against the premier pacer Jasprit Bumrah, during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 clash between Rajasthan Royals (RR) and the Mumbai Indians (MI) at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati, smashed a massive six into the leg stump using his higher back lift. 

In 2025, the southpaw has overall smashed 374 runs in 10 innings of the IPL at a strike rate of 218.71. In the ongoing edition, he has scored 122 runs in three innings at an average of 40.66 and a strike rate of 248.97 with one fifty on his name.

Former India cricketer raises concerns over youngsters’ long-term potential

Questions have been raised about whether Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has been prepared to feature for the Indian side in senior cricket, as he recently celebrated a fine century under pressure against England in the U19 World Cup 2026 final. The former batter, Deep Dasgupta, reflected on the same. 

“He is a generational and special talent. Technically, he has proved himself by playing against some of the best bowlers in the world. Mentally, these talents have to be taken care of – a duty of care is essential – for them to withstand the rigors of international cricket. If he is prepared in that way, then he is definitely ready for the Indian men’s team.” Dasgupta expressed on RevSportz.

Watch the video here: 

“The ‘duty of care’ matters, as he will have to replace someone like Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson, or Ishan Kishan. Current form will matter, given the amount of T20 cricket we are playing at present. Other formats might look for different attributes, but a high-profile T20 tournament will always prioritize form.” He added in the same interaction.

The Bihar batter has slammed some of the best bowlers of international cricket in this IPL so far. But can he handle the pressure of international cricket?

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“It is also important to give these in-form young players a taste of international cricket, which helps them understand what they need to work on to succeed at the highest level.” The former wicket-keeper addressed.

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s recent performances spark national team debate

In their opening game of the IPL 2026, during the 128-run chase against the Chennai Super Kings, Sooryavanshi smashed a fine knock of 52 runs in 17 balls at a strike rate of 305.88, shouldering on four boundaries and five over boundaries as they got over the line in 12.1 overs.

Against the Gujarat Titans (GT), Sooryavanshi nailed 31 runs in 18 deliveries at a strike rate of 172.22, while he backed it up with 39 runs in 14 deliveries at a strike rate of 278.57 during the 11-over encounter.