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Yashasvi Jaiswal’s RR Release Demanded After Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s Carnage – Ambati Rayudu Urges Yashasvi Jaiswal to Leave RR After Vaibhav Sooryavanshi Carnage

Geoffrey A. Thornley · · 4 min read

The Rise of Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and the Rajasthan Royals Conundrum

The IPL 2026 season has witnessed some of the most sensational batting displays in the tournament’s rich history. None, however, have captured the cricketing world’s imagination quite like the exploits of 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi. In the high-stakes Eliminator, the young prodigy bulldozed the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) bowling attack, blasting a breathtaking 29-ball 97. His fiery innings comfortably guided the Rajasthan Royals (RR) into the second qualifier of the tournament and rightfully earned him the ‘Player of the Match’ honors.

Yet, while Sooryavanshi basks in the limelight of his record-shattering campaign, questions are being raised about his senior opening partner, Yashasvi Jaiswal. Despite enjoying a highly respectable season himself, Jaiswal seems to be slipping into the background. This observation has prompted former Indian batter and IPL legend Ambati Rayudu to make a bold claim: Jaiswal must leave the Rajasthan Royals to reclaim his status as a premier leading opener.

Why Ambati Rayudu Wants Yashasvi Jaiswal to Leave Rajasthan Royals

Speaking on ESPNCricinfo, Ambati Rayudu did not hold back his thoughts on the current opening dynamic at Rajasthan Royals. The multi-time IPL champion argued that a player of Jaiswal’s caliber cannot afford to play second fiddle indefinitely.

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“He needs to change his team because he cannot just bat with the guy and be overshadowed every single time. Because Jaiswal’s a star in his own right. If he goes to another team, he will win games on his own,” Rayudu remarked during the discussion.

Rayudu pointed out that Jaiswal, an established Indian Test opener and an elite international talent, is currently being overshadowed by the historic run of his teenage partner. To truly flourish and command the spotlight he deserves, Rayudu believes Jaiswal needs to transition to a franchise where he can be the undisputed focal point of the top order.

Is Mumbai Indians the Perfect Fit for Jaiswal?

Beyond advocating for an exit, Rayudu went a step further by suggesting a potential destination for the explosive left-hander. He proposed that a return to his domestic roots could do wonders for Jaiswal’s career.

“Mumbai Indians can be a great team to play for Jaiswal,” Rayudu added. Given that Jaiswal already represents Mumbai in domestic cricket, transitioning to the five-time IPL champions could represent a seamless fit, allowing him to spearhead one of the most high-profile batting line-ups in the league.

How Jaiswal’s Exit Could Benefit Vaibhav Sooryavanshi

Interestingly, Rayudu’s analytical take was not entirely centered on Jaiswal’s career prospects. He explained that a separation could also unlock further potential for the 15-year-old Sooryavanshi. According to Rayudu, a young, dominant player needs an experienced, non-competing partner who can nurture his aggressive instincts rather than matching them blow-for-blow.

“He needs that space and a platform, because Vaibhav Sooryavanshi will continue to overshadow people,” Rayudu explained. “And even Sooryavanshi needs a senior partner along with him, who can deal with it and be happy for him. Be happy for what is happening and not be in contest with your opening partner.”

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By the Numbers: Jaiswal vs. Sooryavanshi in IPL 2026

While the debate surrounding their partnership intensifies, a quick look at the statistical comparison highlights why Rayudu believes the narrative has become so lopsided. Both players have enjoyed strong seasons, but Sooryavanshi’s numbers are historic.

  • Vaibhav Sooryavanshi: 680 runs in 15 innings, Orange Cap holder, Average: 45.33, Strike Rate: 242.85.
  • Yashasvi Jaiswal: 426 runs in 15 innings, Average: 32.76, Strike Rate: 153.23 (including three half-centuries, with a best of 77* off 32 balls against Mumbai Indians).

While Jaiswal’s strike rate of over 153 and average of nearly 33 are exceptional by modern T20 standards, they pale in comparison to Sooryavanshi’s extraordinary strike rate of over 242. This stark contrast is what Rayudu believes is inadvertently diminishing Jaiswal’s contributions.

Looking Ahead: Rajasthan Royals Target Qualifier 2

Despite the off-field debates, the Rajasthan Royals must keep their focus firmly on the immediate task at hand. The franchise is just one step away from the final as they prepare to take on the Gujarat Titans in Qualifier 2 of the IPL 2026 season.

The highly anticipated clash will be hosted at the Mullanpur Stadium in New Chandigarh on Friday, May 29, with the action scheduled to commence at 7:30 PM IST. All eyes will once again be on the explosive opening duo of Jaiswal and Sooryavanshi to see if they can fire the Royals into the grand finale.

Yashasvi Jaiswal’s RR Release Demanded After Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s Carnage – Ambati Rayudu Urges Yashasvi Jaiswal to Leave RR After Vaibhav Sooryavanshi Carnage