‘It’s unusual’: Alastair Cook reveals what makes Vaibhav Sooryavanshi different

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi of Rajasthan Royals (AP Photo) Few players have captured the imagination of the cricketing world as much as Vaibhav Sooryavanshi. At just 15, the Rajasthan Royals opener has become one of the biggest sensations in the game after producing a breathtaking record-breaking IPL 2026 campaign and earning admiration from some of cricket’s most respected voices. The teenager from Samastipur ended the season as the tournament’s top scorer, amassing a remarkable 776 runs. His explosive performances played a major role in Rajasthan Royals’ campaign and sparked widespread calls for an India debut, especially after his two scores in the nineties during the play-offs. Sooryavanshi’s dominance was reflected in the accolades he collected at the end of the season. In addition to winning the Orange Cap, he was named Most Valuable Player and Rookie of the Season. His amazing strike rate of 237.31 won him the Super Striker Award, while his record 72 sixes secured the Super Sixes honour. Former England captain Alastair Cook was among those fascinated by the youngster’s batting. Speaking on the Stick to Cricket podcast, Cook highlighted the quality he believes separates Sooryavanshi from even the most devastating batsmen in the world. “I think the only thing about it is that it doesn’t look like any kind of pre-medication. Most batsmen, even the best hitters, literally wait for that ball to be in their one six-slot. They might have two slots. But you hit five balls with him and he waits for the ball at 99 miles an hour, then he reacts to it and still hits it for a six,” Cook said in ‘Alaststick,’ which I think air. cricket podcast. Cook’s observations centered on the youngster’s incredible reaction time and natural ability to strike the ball. Unlike many power bowlers who expect certain deliveries, Sooryavanshi seems to be able to adapt instantly and handle even high-speed bowling with ease. Another former England captain, Michael Vaughan, also shared a fun encounter with the teenage star during the tournament. “I was in the pool last week in Mumbai. Rajasthan are playing Mumbai – a must-win game to get into the playoffs. Yashasvi Jaiswal comes in and chats, and then the kid (Sooryavanshi) comes in and I go, ‘Nice to meet you. Total admiration for the way you play. How do you prepare for games? He said, ‘He’s been watching cartoons.’ I was like… okay. I said, ‘Are you training?’ He said, “No.” I said, “Everything.” I said, “Look at the cartoon, eat what you want.”The light-hearted exchange offered a glimpse into the easy-going personality of one of world cricket’s most talked-about talents. After a record-breaking IPL season, Sooryavanshi is all set for the next important chapter in his young career. The teenage sensation will be another part of India A in the upcoming tri-series in Sri Lanka and is also in contention for a place in India’s tour of Ireland.