IPL 2026: ‘It would be foolish to copy him’ - Devdutt Padikkal hails Vaibhav Sooryavanshi as rare talent

Devdutt Padikkal has heaped praise on young batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi for his remarkable performances in IPL 2026. The left-handed batter has enjoyed a sensational season, scoring 579 runs in 12 matches at an impressive average of 44.53, making him the third-highest run-scorer of the tournament.

Padikkal described the 15-year-old as a unique talent whose explosive batting ability sets him apart from others. He said Sooryavanshi possesses rare qualities and has already shown immense maturity despite his young age.

The Royal Challengers Bengaluru batter also revealed that he avoids comparing himself with other players, despite the presence of several talented youngsters in the league. Instead, Padikkal said he prefers to keep things simple and focus on improving his own game continuously.

"What Vaibhav Suryavanshi does is truly unique. At his age, to have that kind of power and explosiveness in his batting is special. Honestly, it would be foolish for anyone to try to copy him. He is a rare talent, and what he does is incredible. For me, I focus on my own strengths and try to get the best out of myself. I don't compare myself with others because there are so many talented players in this tournament. I keep it simple and work on improving my own game as much as I can,” said Padikkal on JioHotstar.

Padikkal has been one of the standout performers for RCB in IPL 2026. The left-handed batter has scored 412 runs in 12 innings at an average of 37.45 and an impressive strike rate of 173.10. Padikkal has also registered three half-centuries this season, consistently providing stability at the top while maintaining an aggressive approach.

Meanwhile, attention now shifts to Match 67 of the ongoing IPL 2026, where Sunrisers Hyderabad will face Royal Challengers Bengaluru in a crucial league-stage encounter at Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium on Friday, May 22.

For Sunrisers Hyderabad, the contest carries massive importance as a victory will confirm their place in the playoffs. Even a defeat could still see them qualify, but that scenario would leave them dependent on other results.

RCB, meanwhile, have looked every bit like defending champions this season. Having already secured a playoff berth, Bengaluru will now aim for a top-two finish. A win against Hyderabad would guarantee them an important advantage in the playoffs, providing an extra opportunity to reach the final.