Sangakkara predicts immediate India call-up for Sooryavanshi after IPL record
Kumar Sangakkara says Vaibhav Sooryavanshi is “more than ready” for national selection after breaking the single-season sixes record and scoring 776 runs in IPL 2026.
Rajasthan Royals head coach Kumar Sangakkara has publicly endorsed 15-year-old batter Vaibhav Sooryavanshi for an immediate senior Indian national team call-up, citing his exceptional performance during the IPL 2026 season. Sangakkara stated that the teenager is “more than ready” to handle the pressures of international cricket, predicting that a senior selection would come “very, very soon.”
Sooryavanshi concluded the tournament with 776 runs at a strike rate of 237.30, establishing himself as the fastest batsman in IPL history to reach 1,000 runs. His innings included 72 sixes, shattering Chris Gayle’s 14-year-old record of 59 sixes in a single season. The former Sri Lankan captain noted that Gayle achieved his record when Sooryavanshi was just one year old, highlighting the unprecedented nature of the young batter’s achievements.
The endorsement follows Sooryavanshi’s counter-attacking 96 off 47 balls against the Gujarat Titans in IPL 2026 Qualifier 2. Although Rajasthan Royals did not reach the final, Sangakkara praised the teenager’s composure and tactical awareness during the high-stakes match. He described Sooryavanshi’s innings as brilliant, noting that the batter held his nerve and shouldered the responsibility of the opening partnership despite wickets falling around him.
Sangakkara emphasised that Sooryavanshi’s maturity and fearlessness under pressure make him equipped for the challenges of international cricket. The coach highlighted the batter’s ability to read the game and situations well, stating that he trusts the teenager’s instincts and natural style. Sangakkara warned against overloading young players with information, preferring to keep tactical advice simple to preserve Sooryavanshi’s uninhibited approach.
To support the young asset during the off-season, the franchise plans to implement a customized workload management and physical training program in coordination with their medical team. The Royals intend to shield Sooryavanshi from external noise and tactical clutter, ensuring he maintains a clear mind. With national selectors monitoring options ahead of upcoming international T20 assignments, the focus remains on protecting the teenager’s development while preparing him for the next level.
