Teenage cricket sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has already achieved what many players dream of in a lifetime. Yet, after dominating IPL 2026 and collecting multiple individual awards, the 15-year-old says his biggest ambition still lies in Test cricket.
The Rajasthan Royals star enjoyed one of the most remarkable seasons in IPL history. He scored 776 runs at a stunning strike rate of 237.31 and finished the tournament as the Orange Cap winner, Most Valuable Player, Emerging Player of the Season and Super Striker award recipient.
Despite rewriting T20 records, Sooryavanshi has made it clear that red-ball cricket remains his ultimate destination.
IPL Stardom Has Not Changed His Long-Term Goal
Speaking after the IPL 2026 final in Ahmedabad, Sooryavanshi revealed that he has been quietly working on his red-ball skills away from the spotlight.
The young batter said many fans only see his aggressive six-hitting in T20 cricket, but there is another side to his game that will soon become visible.
“I have practised a lot with a red ball, but no one has seen me do that. They will see it soon,” he said during a post-match interaction.
His comments suggest that preparations are already underway for upcoming domestic and India A assignments.
Test Cricket Remains the Ultimate Dream
Sooryavanshi emphasized that his attacking style in T20 cricket should not define him as a player.
According to the youngster, coaches encourage him to play fearlessly in the shortest format, but he understands the different demands of longer formats.
“I want to play Test cricket because my father always taught me that it is the ultimate format,” he said.
The Bihar cricketer also acknowledged that he still has much to learn in red-ball cricket. Although he has represented Bihar in the Ranji Trophy, opportunities have been limited so far.
Sachin Tendulkar Backs the Young Star
Sooryavanshi’s Test cricket ambitions received a major boost after legendary cricketer Sachin Tendulkar publicly endorsed his potential in the longest format.
Tendulkar recently advised the youngster to remain natural and trust his instincts. The batting icon said young players grow by solving challenges over time and should not be burdened with excessive instructions early in their careers.
The endorsement has further strengthened calls for Sooryavanshi’s progression through India’s cricketing pathway.
Impressive Numbers at a Young Age
Sooryavanshi has already gained valuable first-class experience. Since making his debut for Bihar in 2024, he has played eight first-class matches and shown glimpses of his talent.
He also made headlines in youth cricket by scoring a rapid century for India Under-19 against Australia, underlining his ability across formats.
His IPL performances have accelerated discussions about a future India call-up, but the teenager appears focused on long-term development rather than immediate rewards.
A Bright Future Ahead
While IPL 2026 established Vaibhav Sooryavanshi as one of cricket’s brightest young stars, his latest comments reveal a player determined to build a complete career.
For now, fans know him as a fearless T20 match-winner. However, if his red-ball ambitions become reality, Indian cricket may soon witness the emergence of a multi-format star capable of succeeding on every stage.
With talent, discipline and a clear vision for the future, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s journey is only just beginning.
