WWE star heaps praise on 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi despite loss vs GT

Indian teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi may not have managed Rajasthan Royals to the IPL final, but his extraordinary performances have already earned him worldwide recognition. The 15-year-old produced another outstanding knock in Qualifier 2 against Gujarat Titans in Mullanpur on Friday, May 29, underlining his rapid rise on the biggest stage.

Sooryavanshi’s breakthrough season has not only made him one of the most talked about young cricketers in the world, but has also sparked conversations. around his potential future Indian challenge and long-term impact on the game.

“Halla Bol Sooryavanshi. Don’t worry about those individual milestones, what was it, 97 the other day and 96 today. What you are doing at 15 is unheard of in any sport, anytime, unbelievable man,” WWE Superstar Drew McIntyre said in a video posted on social media with the Rajasthan Royals name in hand.

“I actually have to be a good luck charm,” McIntyre added with a smile, referring to an earlier video where he wished the youngster and Rajasthan Royals luck ahead of the playoffs.

BREAKTHROUGH SEASON

Despite Rajasthan Royals exiting IPL 2026 after a heartbreaking defeat in Qualifier 2, Sooryavanshi’s individual brilliance stood out. The teenager was visibly emotional in the dugout after the loss, marking the end of a campaign that featured one of the most remarkable debut seasons in league history.

His numbers underline the extent of his breakthrough, 776 runs in 16 matches at an average of 48.50 and a staggering strike rate of 237.31. Sooryavanshi finished the season with the Orange Capemerging as the defining young star of IPL 2026.

Praise from WWE superstar Drew McIntyre added to the growing global attention surrounding Sooryavanshi, with the wrestler highlighting the teenager’s maturity and consistency under pressure. The cross-sport recognition further reflects how the youngster’s performances have transcended the cricketing audience and captured global sporting interest.

Sooryavanshi’s rise has also placed him firmly in discussions of India’s next generation of batting talent, with his fearless approach and consistency making him one of the most closely watched young athletes in the country.

He will next be in action for the India A side when they take part in the Tri-nation series in Sri Lanka from June 9.

– The end

Published on:

30 May 2026 14:19 IST