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Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) batter Devdutt Padikkal has opened up on comparisons with teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, saying it would be “foolish” for anyone to try and copy the Rajasthan Royals prodigy’s batting style.
Vaibhav has emerged as one of the biggest talking points of the Indian Premier League 2026 after producing explosive performances for Rajasthan Royals throughout the tournament.
The 15-year-old has stunned world-class bowlers with his fearless batting approach and has already established himself as one of the most dangerous young batters in the competition.
Padikkal opens up on Vaibhav Sooryavanshi comparisons
Speaking to JioStar, Padikkal praised Vaibhav’s rare ability and admitted that the youngster’s power-hitting at such a young age is truly special.
"What Vaibhav Sooryavanshi does is truly unique. At his age, to have that kind of power and explosiveness in his batting is special," Padikkal said.
The left-handed batter further explained why he does not believe in comparing himself with Vaibhav or trying to replicate his aggressive style.
"Honestly, it would be foolish for anyone to try to copy him. He is a rare talent, and what he does is incredible," he added.
Devdutt Padikkal also made it clear that his focus remains on improving his own strengths rather than comparing himself with other players in the IPL.
"For me, I focus on my own strengths and try to get the best out of myself. I do not compare myself with others because there are so many talented players in this tournament. I keep it simple and work on improving my own game as much as I can," he stated.
Vaibhav himself has enjoyed a sensational IPL 2026 campaign so far, scoring 579 runs in 13 innings at an average of 44.53 and a staggering strike rate of over 236.
The RR opener has smashed one century and three half-centuries this season while also hitting 53 sixes — the highest by an Indian batter in a single IPL edition.
Padikkal reflects on RCB’s aggressive batting approach
Padikkal also spoke about RCB’s deep batting line-up and how it has helped batters play with more freedom this season.
"That is how T20 cricket is evolving now. You have to be ready to sacrifice your wicket if it helps the team score an extra 20 or 30 runs quickly," Padikkal explained.
He added that having batting depth allows players at the top to attack more confidently without worrying excessively about collapses.
"And when you have batting depth and explosiveness coming in later, it makes that approach even easier to execute," he said.
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Devdutt Padikkal himself has been one of RCB’s standout performers this season. The stylish left-hander has scored 412 runs in 12 innings at an average of 37.45 and an impressive strike rate of over 173.
He has also registered three half-centuries while stitching together several important partnerships alongside Virat Kohli.
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