IPL 2026 Eliminator: Fan backlash targets Praful Hinge’s celebration after Sooryavanshi wicket

Rajasthan Royals secured their place in the IPL 2026 final with a commanding victory over Sunrisers Hyderabad in the Eliminator on May 28, 2026. The match, which saw the hosts post a formidable total of 243/8, became a focal point for debate regarding player conduct following the dismissal of 15-year-old batter Vaibhav Sooryavanshi.

Sooryavanshi’s innings was a standout performance in the tournament, as he scored 97 runs off just 29 balls, including 12 sixes. The young opener, who partnered with Yashasvi Jaiswal for a rapid 125-run opening stand, narrowly missed becoming the fastest centurion in IPL history. His aggressive strokeplay placed immense pressure on the Sunrisers Hyderabad bowling attack throughout the innings.

The narrative of the match shifted in the latter stages when Sunrisers Hyderabad pacer Praful Hinge dismissed Sooryavanshi. Hinge’s reaction to the wicket was described as aggressive and visibly pumped up, a display that drew immediate criticism from fans on social media. Many observers felt the intensity of the celebration was inappropriate given the age of the batter and the context of the knockout stage.

In contrast to the backlash directed at Hinge, Sunrisers Hyderabad batter Abhishek Sharma received widespread praise for his conduct following the wicket. Sharma approached the young Rajasthan Royals player and offered a reassuring pat on the back, a gesture that was highlighted by fans as a display of genuine sportsmanship and respect for a fellow competitor.

Despite the controversy surrounding the dismissal, Rajasthan Royals’ performance remained dominant. Dhruv Jurel contributed a quickfire 50 off 21 balls to bolster the total, while Hinge finished with bowling figures of 3/54. The Royals’ comprehensive victory moves them one step closer to the IPL 2026 final, with the focus now shifting to their next challenge in the tournament.