A Rising Star and Unusual Accusations
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, a young batsman for the Rajasthan Royals, has become one of the most talked-about players in IPL 2026. His performances have been nothing short of spectacular, with a century that captured the attention of fans and experts alike. However, his meteoric rise has also attracted some unusual allegations.
One such claim came from Pakistan’s cricket expert Nauman Niaz, who suggested that Sooryavanshi might be using an “AI chip” in his bat. This statement was made shortly after the 15-year-old scored a century, highlighting the unexpected nature of the accusation. Despite the controversy, Sooryavanshi has undeniably been one of the standout performers of the season, showcasing an aggressive batting style that has left many impressed.
The Bizarre Claim
Nauman Niaz made the controversial comment on a show, questioning how a young player could possess such immense power in his batting. He stated:
“Think about it. What is this kid? Get his bat checked. Like WADA conducts dope tests, send him to a lab. He probably used an AI chip in his bat. He is unreal. What a player. I did get a feeling he was playing a tad slow. This made me think, what is this guy? When you’re 18, your body builds muscle, biceps, and triceps. This one is just 16. He was born when Virat Kohli was a world champion. He doesn’t have the power game as much as he has technique. He is a wristy player, plus, if you look at this arc, he used the full 360 degree.”
While the video of this statement has gone viral on social media, many have dismissed it as hyperbole or desperation. Others, however, have chosen to focus on Sooryavanshi’s skills and consistency, emphasizing that there is no evidence to support the claim.
Proven Talent and Consistency
Sooryavanshi has consistently delivered impressive performances, both in the IPL and internationally. His recent century against Sunrisers Hyderabad was achieved in just 36 balls, and prior to that, he scored 78 off 26 deliveries against RCB. He was only a few balls away from scoring the fastest ever IPL ton.
In eight matches, Sooryavanshi has amassed 357 runs, placing him second in the race for the Orange Cap. He is outscoring big names like KL Rahul, Virat Kohli, and Shubman Gill, with only Heinrich Klaasen ahead of him among overseas players.
A Global Impact
Sooryavanshi’s talent is not limited to the IPL. He has shown his ability to score runs across England, Australia, and South Africa. Additionally, he played a crucial role in helping India win the U-19 World Cup earlier this year. His performances have earned praise from retired professionals, who have commended his technique and composure.
With his current form and age, an India cap seems inevitable. Sooryavanshi’s impact on the game has been significant, and his potential is vast. As he continues to shine in the IPL, the cricketing world will be watching closely to see how far he can go.
