Ashwin’s View on Vaibhav Sooryavanshi
- Ravichandran Ashwin shared his opinion on Vaibhav Sooryavanshi ahead of the IPL 2026 season. The young player will make it hard for opponents to defeat Rajasthan Royals if he continues to perform at his current level.
- Ashwin explained that Vaibhav has strong attacking ability. He can win matches through his ability to score points when he plays without restrictions. However, Ashwin also pointed out that this is only Vaibhav’s second IPL season. The player will experience difficulties because he lacks sufficient professional experience. He advised that expectations should remain balanced.
Pressure and Opposition Strategy
Ashwin observed that media outlets and fans presently devote high levels of attention to Vaibhav. The growing attention from the media and fans creates extra pressure which affects young athletes.
He also stated that opposing teams will prepare specific plans:
- Bowlers will target his weaknesses
- Field placements will restrict his scoring possibilities
- Teams will apply early pressure to limit his impact
Ashwin wanted to observe Vaibhav perform his previous showings again despite the existing obstacles. He referred to the player’s success in the Under-19 World Cup and the previous IPL season.
Captaincy Responsibility for Riyan Parag
Ashwin shared his thoughts about Riyan Parag becoming the Rajasthan Royals team captain. Leading an IPL team requires multiple duties which demand constant decision-making according to him.
The captain will experience reduced pressure because team performance directly affects his outcomes. He mentioned several players whose contributions are important:
- Jofra Archer: needs to perform well with the ball
- Ravi Bishnoi: should maintain consistency in bowling
- Ravindra Jadeja: expected to deliver effective overs and contribute as a finisher
Ashwin added that strong individual performances can support Parag’s leadership and improve team results.
Leadership Perspective
- Ashwin shared his personal view on leadership decisions. He felt that the team management could have considered giving captaincy to Ravindra Jadeja. In that case, Riyan Parag could have taken the role of vice-captain for a short period to gain experience.
- He concluded that while the current setup may work, the success of Rajasthan Royals will depend on both leadership and overall team performance.
