Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan A note of caution has been sounded around the growing hype surrounding teenage sensation Vibhu Suryavanshi ahead of IPL 2026, while the youngster has also been tipped to back what could be a defining season.Speaking on JioStar, Pathan pointed out that the real test for Vaibhav will begin now, with teams expected to come up with a clear strategy to counter his explosive batting.
“Vaibhu will have challenges. Teams will come with specific plans against him. We have already seen how teams plan for Abhishek, and Vaibhu will face the same. But I think he has a ‘dim’. He scores wherever he plays – be it U-19, India A, or Red Ball cricket. He has been consistent, we have only seen him score seven runs this season.” A full run of matches, so there is every possibility that it could be a breakout season for Vaibhav,” said Pathan.Vaibhav went inside. IPL 2026 as one of the most talked about young players in the Indian Premier League. The 14-year-old grabbed headlines last season with a stunning 35-ball century against Gujarat Titans, becoming the youngest player in IPL history to score a century and the fastest Indian player to reach the milestone, surpassing Yusuf Pathan’s record.His rise in international age-group cricket has been equally remarkable. Vibhu played a match-winning innings of 175 off 80 balls against England in the U-19 World Cup final, earning the Player of the Match award and helping India to its sixth title.Despite the increased spotlight, Pathan stressed the importance of mental balance for the youngster as he navigates the early stages of what could be a long career.“At the same time, it’s important for Vaibhav not to let anything affect him mentally. It’s remarkable to think that he’s only 15 years old and could potentially have a professional career of 20-25 years ahead of him. In an era where longevity isn’t always a priority, Vaibhav has that opportunity. He needs to be mentally free and not easily caught up in thinking things. Rahul DravidHis role was crucial last season, and having that kind of mentor around him again this season will be crucial. There will certainly be plans against him – teams can try to keep the ball outside the off-stump, away from his striking arc, and use variations to limit him. It will have to adapt and overcome these challenges,” he added.Vibhu, who became the youngest ever IPL player at the age of just 14 years and 23 days. Rajasthan Royals 1.1 crore in the 2025 auction, now ready for the full season with high expectations.After the departure of Rahul Dravid, Kumar Sangakkara took over as the head coach. Ryan Prague Leading the team, Rajasthan Royals will open their IPL 2026 campaign against him. Chennai Super Kings March 30 in Guwahati.
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As expectations mount, all eyes will be on Vibhu to see if he can live up to the hype and translate that promise into consistent performance in the upcoming season.
