Vaibhav Sooryavanshi continued his sensational run in the Indian Premier League 2026, delivering another explosive performance for Rajasthan Royals against Sunrisers Hyderabad.
The left-handed batter announced his aggressive intent right from the start at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium, smashing four sixes in the very first over bowled by Praful Hinge.
His fearless stroke play set the tone early as Rajasthan Royals raced to a flying start, leaving the opposition under immediate pressure.
Not once. Not twice. THREE times 👀
— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) April 25, 2026
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi hits another 15-ball half-century this season.👊🏻🔥#TATAIPL 2026 | #RRvSRH | LIVE NOW 👉https://t.co/HHSiOA288w pic.twitter.com/nY3fbmzXpe
Sooryavanshi Reaches Fifty In Just 15 Balls, Creates Unique IPL Record
Continuing his relentless attack, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi raced to a stunning half-century in just 15 balls, once again showcasing his reputation as one of the most explosive young batters in the league.
This knock turned out to be historic, as it marked the third time Sooryavanshi has scored an IPL fifty in 15 balls or fewer — a feat no other batter in tournament history has achieved.
With this achievement, he became the first player ever in IPL history to record three half-centuries inside 15 balls, highlighting his remarkable consistency in delivering ultra-fast scoring bursts.
Pat Cummins Returns As SRH Captain After Injury Layoff
Meanwhile, the match also marked the return of Pat Cummins, who resumed captaincy duties for Sunrisers Hyderabad after recovering from a lumbar bone stress injury in his back.
Cummins had missed nearly the first half of IPL 2026 due to rehabilitation but returned to lead his side in this crucial encounter.
After winning the toss, Cummins opted to bowl first, expressing confidence in his recovery and preparation.
“We’re going to have a bowl first. The wicket looks good, but we have to see what we need to chase down. It’s been a little while, but I’ve had really good preparation and a couple of bowls here. I haven’t played a game for a while, so we’ll see how we go. But the body feels awesome,” Cummins said.
He also confirmed team changes, replacing Dilshan Madushanka, while Praful Hinge came into the playing XI in place of Harsh Dubey.
Rajasthan Royals Confident Despite Losing Toss
Rajasthan Royals captain Riyan Parag admitted that his team had also preferred to bowl first but remained comfortable setting a target at their home venue.
“We were looking for the same as well, but over the last couple of seasons, we haven’t really done well chasing. So I’m happy with defending as well,” Parag said.
He emphasised the team’s familiarity with the Jaipur conditions, pointing out that Rajasthan Royals had spent significant time training at the venue throughout the season.
“We’ve played most of our cricket here and know this wicket really well. Seems like a pretty good wicket. Maybe a little bit of dew later, but it won’t really play that much of a role,” he added.
Parag also confirmed that Rajasthan Royals made adjustments to their playing combination for the match.