'It doesn't matter who you are': Vaibhav Sooryavanshi steals fresh IPL buzz
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi is emerging as a standout performer in IPL 2026, impressing with fearless batting against top bowlers like Jasprit Bumrah. Dale Steyn said the youngster has already “instilled fear” in bowlers. His quick 39 helped Rajasthan Royals beat Mumbai Indians, extending their winning run, with his aggressive approach troubling even the best in the game.
NEW DELHI: Rajasthan Royals youngster Vaibhav Sooryavanshi is quickly making a name for himself in IPL 2026, especially after his fearless hitting against top bowlers like Jasprit Bumrah. In a recent match against Mumbai Indians, his aggressive batting helped RR secure a convincing win and extend their strong run in the tournament. Steyn on Sooryavanshi’s fear factor Former South Africa pacer Dale Steyn believes the young opener is already getting into bowlers’ heads.
After Sooryavanshi smashed Bumrah for a six off the very first ball, Steyn said, “I think that's what he's done," he told ESPNCricinfo. "I mean, honestly, he's created and instilled the fear into bowlers that he's going to hit you for boundaries. ” He pointed out that even a world-class bowler like Bumrah looked under pressure, adding, “That delivery from Bumrah, that's in the slot.
That's so rare of Bumrah. So even the great Bumrah is thinking in the back of his mind: ‘don't get it wrong, because if I get it wrong, this guy's going to hit me for six'. ” Steyn explained that this fear can lead to mistakes: “I feel, if you think like that, more often than not, you do get it wrong.
” Fearless batting driving RR’s success Steyn also highlighted that Sooryavanshi’s confidence makes him dangerous against any bowler. “And this kid's not scared, man. If you miss a half-volley, he's going to hit you out of the ground… It doesn't matter who you are, Bumrah or Jofra Archer,” he added.