Bengaluru: KL Rahul has downplayed the chances of teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi replicating his viral “hand-in-the-mouth” celebration after scoring a century in the Indian Premier League 2026 season.
Speaking during a segment with ESPNCricinfo, the Delhi Capitals batter said he does not expect the youngster to copy the gesture, calling it highly unlikely.
“I don’t think he is going to do that,” Rahul remarked when asked to rank unusual IPL scenarios.
Sooryavanshi’s meteoric rise continues
The 15-year-old prodigy has been one of the standout performers this IPL season, amassing around 400 runs so far, including a century and two half-centuries.
Sooryavanshi’s fearless batting has made him one of the most talked-about players in the tournament, with bowlers struggling to find a way to contain him. His ability to dominate top-quality pace attacks has drawn praise from experts and former players alike.
Having already taken on elite bowlers across teams, he has shown remarkable composure and aggression beyond his years.
Big test against Mitchell Starc
In the upcoming clash between Rajasthan Royals and Delhi Capitals, Sooryavanshi is set to face a new challenge in the form of Mitchell Starc.
The Australian fast bowler is widely regarded as one of the most dangerous pacers in world cricket, and this contest could test the young batter’s technique and temperament.
So far, Sooryavanshi has already impressed against bowlers like Jasprit Bumrah, Josh Hazlewood, and Pat Cummins, making the upcoming face-off even more intriguing.
Celebration unlikely to be repeated
Rahul’s comment referred to his own unique celebration, where he placed his hand in his mouth after reaching a century in a previous international match.
The gesture had gone viral and carried personal significance, but Rahul believes Sooryavanshi is unlikely to replicate it, despite the youngster’s flair for dramatic performances.
Teenage star rewriting records
Sooryavanshi’s rise has been nothing short of extraordinary. Apart from his IPL exploits, he has already made headlines in international youth cricket, including a standout performance in the Under-19 World Cup earlier this year.
His rapid ascent has drawn comparisons with some of the game’s biggest names, with experts suggesting that he could be a future star for Indian cricket.
Even former coach Rahul Dravid had cautioned that opposition teams would come better prepared against him, but the youngster has shown little sign of slowing down.
What lies ahead
As the IPL season progresses, expectations around Sooryavanshi continue to grow. While Rahul has ruled out one specific scenario, the young batter’s unpredictable and explosive style means he remains capable of producing more headline-grabbing moments.
Whether he can dominate yet another top-tier bowler like Starc will be closely watched by fans and experts alike.
Conclusion
KL Rahul’s remarks may have dismissed the possibility of a specific celebration, but they underline the growing spotlight on Vaibhav Sooryavanshi. With consistent performances and fearless batting, the teenage sensation continues to captivate audiences, making every innings a must-watch in IPL 2026.
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