Rajasthan Royals’ 15-year-old opener Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has been making headlines not just for his batting, but also for a memorable moment off the field. During IPL 2026, Sooryavanshi received a Rajasthan Royals cap featuring Virat Kohli’s signature, and he later sported the same cap in matches—showing it off during live television coverage as well.
Cap from Virat Kohli becomes a match-day talking point
- After the Rajasthan Royals vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru game, Sooryavanshi spent time speaking with Virat Kohli.
- Kohli then signed a Rajasthan Royals cap for the youngster.
- Rajasthan Royals shared images and a video of the signed cap on their official social media platform.
- In Rajasthan Royals’ match against Kolkata Knight Riders on Sunday, Sooryavanshi appeared wearing the same cap.
- He even posed with it during the live broadcast, drawing attention from fans and viewers.
Punjab Kings captain Shreyas Iyer later added to the spotlight on Sooryavanshi, describing him as a “spectacular talent” after the opener’s standout displays in IPL 2026.
Iyer’s praise after Punjab Kings’ win
Iyer made his comments during JioStar’s “Believe” show following Punjab Kings’ dominant 54-run victory over Lucknow Super Giants. While discussing the young players emerging across the league, he singled out Sooryavanshi’s approach at the crease—focusing on his technique and the composure he shows even at such an early stage.
Iyer stressed that what distinguishes Sooryavanshi is his natural skill set. He pointed to the youngster’s batting rhythm and the movement he makes before the delivery, suggesting that these elements reflect a strong base that can help him grow into a reliable performer at the highest level in the years ahead.
“He is a spectacular talent, and all the adjectives would be pretty much less for him. The way he has that bat flow, the rhythm and momentum he creates before the delivery, I think he is one for the future,” Iyer said.
Sooryavanshi’s IPL 2026 numbers and the support around him
Sooryavanshi’s form in the ongoing season has been equally hard to ignore. In IPL 2026 so far, the Royals opener has amassed 246 runs across six matches, striking at an extraordinary rate of 236.53.
Iyer also spoke about the environment within his own squad—highlighting how Punjab Kings manage young talent. He referenced his interactions with Prabhsimran Singh and Priyansh Arya, underlining the value of backing players’ natural abilities rather than forcing them to imitate others.
“We have a team room, which is probably there for every team. We try to spend a lot of time together in that team room before and after games, and whenever we have off days. We come together and build that bond. Whenever I speak to them, my only message is, just be yourself. Don’t try to emulate, mimic, or be someone else,” Iyer said.
The Punjab Kings captain added that fearlessness and individuality are key at this level. He noted that when young batters are told they can win matches, it boosts confidence and allows them to play with freedom.
“When you are playing at this level, and you are fearless and flamboyant in your own way, you don’t have to resemble or copy anyone. When you tell these guys that they are match-winners, both Prabhsimran and Priyansh Arya, it instils confidence in them. They can just go out there and play freely. They have been delivering for us, and hopefully, they continue to do so,” Iyer added.
