Pat Cummins Calls Vaibhav Sooryavanshi ‘New Favourite Player’ After Explosive IPL 2026 Century

Pat Cummins lauded teenage star Vaibhav Sooryavanshi as his “new favourite player” after the 15-year-old’s explosive IPL 2026 century in Jaipur.

Rajasthan Royals’ teenage prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi once again grabbed the spotlight in IPL 2026 with a breathtaking century against Sunrisers Hyderabad at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur. The 15-year-old smashed a sensational 103 off just 37 balls, hammering five fours and 12 sixes in a fearless display of power-hitting.

Sooryavanshi showed no hesitation against world-class bowling, including Pat Cummins, whom he attacked right from the outset by launching a six off the very first delivery he faced.

Despite facing only four balls from the SRH skipper, the youngster made his intent clear with his aggressive approach. His innings added to an already impressive season where he has taken on top pacers like Jasprit Bumrah and Josh Hazlewood with confidence.

However, his heroics went in vain as Sunrisers Hyderabad successfully chased down the 228-run target to secure a five-wicket victory in a high-scoring encounter.

Cummins Left Impressed, Calls Him ‘Favourite Player’

Despite being on the receiving end, Pat Cummins couldn’t hide his admiration for the young batter. Speaking after the match, the SRH skipper praised Sooryavanshi’s fearless style and clean striking ability.

“I think he’s my new favourite player. He hits the ball so hard, it’s great to watch. It’s good fun,” Cummins said at the post-match press conference.

Highlighting the challenge of bowling in modern T20 cricket.

“You have to be right on the money as a bowler. If you are not, it’s going a long way. It’s impressive. He has had a great start to his career, and yeah, I like the way he plays. Takes the game on.”

Cummins Reflects on SRH Win and Team Effort

Cummins also reflected on his return to action and SRH’s overall performance in the match. The Australian pacer admitted there were uncertainties heading into the game after a break but was pleased with the outcome.

“Really happy with the win. You are never quite sure how it is going to come out first game. Preparations were good. Ah, I do not know. We need to start working on our batting.”

ALSO READ | MS Dhoni Opts Out of Selection Despite Fitness to Maintain CSK Team Balance in IPL 2026 | Reports

Praising his team’s effort, Cummins credited stand-in captain Ishan Kishan and the young players for their contribution.

“They have been awesome. Ishan led them beautifully… the young guys have been awesome. We got off to a flyer in the powerplay and then it was just 10 runs per over. Abhishek, Ishan and these guys scored runs pretty quickly. We have got a very calm and confident group.”