Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, widely celebrated as an IPL 2026 batting prodigy, has drawn admiration that stretches far beyond cricket circles. The latest high-profile fan to send support is WWE star Drew McIntyre, who posted a heartfelt message for the 15-year-old as Sooryavanshi continues to make waves with his fearless performances.
Key takeaways
- Drew McIntyre, known as “The Scottish Warrior” on WWE’s SmackDown brand, shared praise for Vaibhav Sooryavanshi on Instagram.
- Sooryavanshi scored a rapid 96 off 47 balls in IPL 2026 Qualifier 2 against Gujarat Titans, even as Rajasthan Royals went out of the tournament.
- Rajasthan Royals finished that qualifier on 214/6, but Gujarat Titans chased it down with seven wickets to spare.
- In the other IPL 2026 semi-final at Mullanpur, Gujarat Titans booked a final berth by beating Rajasthan Royals by 7 wickets.
- Gujarat’s chase was powered by Shubman Gill’s 104 off 53 and support from Sai Sudharsan, with the team reaching 219/3 in 18.4 overs.
WWE’s Drew McIntyre joins the chorus for Vaibhav
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has been earning global attention for his fearless approach with the bat, and that acclaim has now reached the world of sports entertainment. Drew McIntyre—one of WWE’s biggest names and a prominent figure on the SmackDown roster—added his voice of admiration for the young batter.
McIntyre, widely recognized by his nickname “The Scottish Warrior,” has built a large international following through intense in-ring presence, gripping promo work, and major championship storylines. Earlier, he was also spotted training while wearing a Rajasthan Royals jersey, seen as a tribute to cricket sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi.
After Vaibhav’s latest standout outing, McIntyre took to Instagram to send a message that reflected genuine respect for the teenager’s impact. The WWE star’s caption highlighted how far beyond typical expectations Vaibhav has been performing at such a young age, ending with an upbeat call-out to keep the momentum going.
Qualifier 2: Sooryavanshi’s 96 powers RR to 214/6, GT chase it
Vaibhav’s reputation for producing big innings under pressure was on full display in IPL 2026 Qualifier 2 against Gujarat Titans. Rajasthan Royals ultimately crashed out of the tournament, but not before Sooryavanshi produced another memorable knock.
Despite RR being jolted early—reduced to 9/2 in the opening phase of the innings—Sooryavanshi played a starring role in turning the chase of the contest back in Rajasthan’s favour. He struck 96 off 47 balls, showing the kind of aggression and composure that has become his signature in T20 cricket.
With his effort, Rajasthan Royals managed to set a tough total of 214/6. However, Gujarat Titans successfully chased it down with seven wickets in hand, leaving Sooryavanshi visibly emotional in the dugout.
While the knock fell just short of a century once again, the 15-year-old’s performance was still significant—particularly because it came in a decisive game. The emotional reaction that followed the result was met by support from McIntyre, who posted a special message praising Vaibhav’s extraordinary achievements.
In his Instagram note, McIntyre wrote: “Vaibhav Sooryavanshi is doing stuff that is unheard of at 15 🤯🤯🤯🤯Halla Bol, young man!”
IPL 2026 semi-final at Mullanpur: Gujarat win by 7 wickets, Gill hits 104
Gujarat Titans later confirmed their place in the IPL 2026 final with a dominant 7-wicket victory over Rajasthan Royals in Mullanpur. Rajasthan posted 214/6, anchored by Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s 96 off 47, along with a late cameo from Donovan Ferreira.
In response, Gujarat’s chase was led by captain Shubman Gill. He delivered a match-defining innings of 104 off 53 balls, providing the momentum Gujarat needed from the start. Sai Sudharsan contributed as well, scoring 58 off 32.
The opening partnership proved crucial, putting Gujarat in firm control as they moved steadily towards the target. They completed the chase in just 18.4 overs, finishing on 219/3.
Gill was named Player of the Match for his standout century as Gujarat Titans advanced to the final with one of the most impressive successful chases of the season.
