Rajasthan Royals (RR) youngster Vaibhav Suryavanshi continues to win hearts during IPL 2026, not only because of his fearless batting but also due to his humility off the field. The 15-year-old sensation has emerged as one of the breakout stars of the season after producing a series of explosive performances for RR under immense pressure.
Ahead of Rajasthan’s Eliminator clash against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in Mullanpur, Vaibhav was seen touching the feet of legendary former India captain Sunil Gavaskar and ex-India batter Sanjay Bangar to seek their blessings. The touching gesture quickly became a talking point among fans, and Gavaskar later revealed the simple message he gave the teenager.
Sunil Gavaskar reveals his message for Vaibhav Suryavanshi
Speaking on the Sports Tak show about his interaction with the Rajasthan Royals youngster, Gavaskar revealed that he had only one short message for Vaibhav before the big game. The batting legend said his words to the youngster were: “Keep at it, son… keep at it.”
Gavaskar explained that Vaibhav’s fearless approach and confidence at such a young age had left him deeply impressed. The former India captain also added that he would have given the same advice even if he had been batting alongside the teenager himself.
The moment gained even more significance after Vaibhav went on to produce another sensational knock in the Eliminator. The left-handed batter smashed a breathtaking 97 off just 29 deliveries against Hyderabad before eventually falling to Praful Hinge. His innings included a brutal assault on the SRH bowling attack and instantly became one of the standout knocks of IPL 2026.
Gavaskar backs Vaibhav for India T20 selection
Gavaskar didn’t stop at praise alone and even backed Vaibhav for an early call-up to India’s T20I side. The cricket icon stated that performances like these deserve serious consideration from selectors regardless of the player’s age.
According to Gavaskar, Vaibhav has already shown the temperament and fearless mindset required at the highest level by taking apart experienced international bowlers throughout the tournament. The legendary opener also suggested that IPL 2026 could eventually be remembered as the season that introduced Indian cricket to its next major superstar.
While discussions around India selection continue to intensify, Vaibhav’s remarkable rise has already become one of the biggest stories of the IPL season. At just 15, the Rajasthan Royals batter has not only impressed with his power-hitting but also with the maturity and respect he has displayed beyond the boundary ropes.
