Gujarat Titans assistant coach Parthiv Patel has strongly defended Rajasthan Royals sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi amid growing discussions around the teenager’s age and extraordinary performances in IPL 2026. Ahead of the high-voltage Qualifier 2 clash between GT and RR, Parthiv made it clear that the cricketing world should stop focusing on whether Sooryavanshi is really 15 years old and instead appreciate the remarkable talent he has displayed this season.

The young Rajasthan Royals opener has become the biggest story of IPL 2026 after delivering one breathtaking innings after another. His latest masterclass came in the Eliminator against SunRisers Hyderabad, where he smashed a sensational 97 off just 29 balls to guide RR into Qualifier 2. Sooryavanshi has now scored 680 runs in 15 matches at a staggering strike rate of 242.86, making him one of the most destructive batters in the tournament.

His rapid rise has naturally led to constant conversations about his age, with social media users and fans repeatedly questioning whether he is truly 15. Similar claims had surfaced last season as well, forcing his father to publicly deny accusations of age fraud after Rajasthan Royals signed him at the IPL auction.

ALSO READ: Sadhguru Left In Awe Of Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s Explosive IPL Heroics

Speaking during the pre-match press conference, Parthiv Patel said the discussion around Sooryavanshi’s age should come to an end.

“The way he has been batting, it feels very good to see it. We should not be talking about his age. I think that’s something we need to put an end to,” Parthiv Patel said.

“He has been a phenomenal talent, just the way he has been playing, and it’s great to watch. From the opposition’s point of view, we just hope he doesn’t get one tomorrow,” he added with a smile.

Gujarat Titans know exactly how dangerous the teenager can be. Earlier this season, Sooryavanshi hammered an unbeaten 101 off just 35 balls against GT, completely dismantling their bowling attack.

ALSO READ: Aakash Chopra Praises Rabada and Archer Ahead of RR vs GT Qualifier 2

However, Parthiv Patel refused to reveal Gujarat Titans’ tactical plans for stopping the RR opener in Qualifier 2. “We also have our plans in place. We have seen the videos like everyone else. Hopefully, we will be able to execute our plans,” he said. Sooryavanshi has already scored 168 runs in three IPL matches against Gujarat Titans, averaging 56 against the former champions.