“Can Play all”: Sarfaraz Khan backs Vaibhav Sooryavanshi to excel across all thr – Can Play all: Sarfaraz Khan backs Vaibhav Sooryavanshi to excel across all thr
A Rising Star Hailed by Peers
The rise of Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has been nothing short of meteoric. While fans and analysts alike have been left mesmerized by his explosive displays in the 2026 Indian Premier League, he has caught the eye of seasoned professionals long before his current stardom. Among his most vocal supporters is established batter Sarfaraz Khan, who recently shared his insights into why “Can Play all”: Sarfaraz Khan backs Vaibhav Sooryavanshi to excel across all thr formats for India.
Early Signs of Brilliance
Sarfaraz Khan’s confidence in the teenager is not based on recent IPL highlights alone. The two first crossed paths in January 2024 during a Ranji Trophy encounter between Mumbai and Bihar. Sooryavanshi, making his First-Class debut at the tender age of 12 years and 284 days, caught the attention of the senior pro immediately. Despite the Bihar side struggling in that fixture, Sarfaraz noted the raw skill and technical foundation the youngster possessed even then. According to Sarfaraz, it was clear that Sooryavanshi was not just a flash in the pan but a player with genuine long-term potential.
Mastering Red-Ball and White-Ball Cricket
When questioned about whether the youngster’s game is limited to the high-octane environment of T20 cricket, Sarfaraz was unequivocal. He believes the teenager is capable of mastering both red-ball and white-ball formats. This versatility is a rare trait, especially for a player who has made such a massive splash in the shortest format at such a young age. Sarfaraz emphasized that Sooryavanshi’s success is rooted in a unique mindset and an unwavering work ethic that sets him apart from his contemporaries.
A Proven Track Record
Before his IPL heroics, Sooryavanshi had already established a reputation at the Under-19 level. He was a pivotal figure in India’s victorious Under-19 World Cup campaign, delivering a stunning 175 off 80 balls in the final against England. His ability to dominate bowlers is reflected in his record-breaking statistics:
- Second-fastest century in Youth Test history at age 13.
- Multiple record-holding performances in Youth ODIs.
- A blistering 36-ball century in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, followed by the fastest List-A 150.
These numbers highlight a player who is not merely participating but actively rewriting the record books.
The 2026 IPL Masterclass
The 2026 IPL season served as the ultimate platform for Sooryavanshi to announce himself on the global stage. Accumulating 776 runs in 16 matches with an average of 48.50 and a staggering strike rate of 237, he has set a benchmark that few could dream of. With 72 sixes to his name, he has redefined power-hitting for the modern era. Even as his team, the Rajasthan Royals, saw their campaign conclude, his final knock of 96 runs from 47 balls was a testament to his fighting spirit and ability to perform under extreme pressure.
Mentality and Preparation
Beyond the statistics, Sarfaraz Khan believes the true differentiator is the youngster’s preparation. While many young players rely purely on natural talent, Sooryavanshi treats his game with a level of professional rigor that is unusual for his age. “His mindset and preparation are different,” Sarfaraz noted. This dedication to his craft suggests that he has the mental fortitude required to withstand the pressures of international cricket. As the Indian selectors look toward the future, the clamor for Sooryavanshi’s inclusion in the national squad continues to grow, and if Sarfaraz’s assessment is correct, the youngster is well-prepared to handle the challenges of the international arena.
