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

Tanay Hughes · · 3 min read

A New Dynamic at the Rajasthan Royals

The IPL 2026 season has been defined by the breathtaking performances of a young prodigy. Vaibhav Sooryavanshi recently bulldozed Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) bowlers with a spectacular 97 off just 29 deliveries during the Eliminator. This match-winning performance not only secured a crucial victory but also propelled the Rajasthan Royals into the second qualifier of the tournament. As Sooryavanshi continues to make headlines with his record-shattering form, the spotlight has shifted to his senior partner, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and the impact this pairing has on their respective careers.

Ambati Rayudu Calls for a Strategic Shift

Former Chennai Super Kings (CSK) legend Ambati Rayudu has ignited a fierce debate regarding Jaiswal’s future with the Royals. Speaking on ESPNCricinfo, the multi-time IPL champion suggested that the elegant Indian Test opener needs a change of scenery. According to Rayudu, Jaiswal is a star in his own right and deserves to lead the batting charge rather than being consistently overshadowed by the explosive 15-year-old Sooryavanshi.

“He needs to change his team because he cannot just bat with the guy and be overshadowed every single time,” Rayudu stated. “Jaiswal’s a star in his own right. If he goes to another team, he will win games on his own.” Rayudu even hinted that the Mumbai Indians would be an ideal destination for Jaiswal, considering his deep roots in the Mumbai domestic cricket circuit.

Creating Space for the Prodigy

Rayudu’s logic extends beyond just Jaiswal’s personal growth; he believes such a move would also benefit Sooryavanshi. The veteran noted that a young, dynamic talent like Sooryavanshi requires a senior partner who can handle the shifting team dynamics without falling into direct competition. Rayudu explained, “He needs that space and a platform, because Vaibhav Sooryavanshi will continue to overshadow people. 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.”

A Look at the Numbers: IPL 2026 Performance

The statistical disparity this season has provided fuel for these discussions. Vaibhav Sooryavanshi currently dons the ‘Orange Cap,’ having amassed an incredible 680 runs in just 15 innings. His aggressive approach is reflected in his stunning strike rate of 242.85 and an average of 45.33.

Conversely, Jaiswal has had a respectable, albeit quieter campaign. In 15 innings, he has accumulated 426 runs, including three half-centuries. His highlight of the season remains an electrifying 32-ball 77* against the Mumbai Indians. While Jaiswal’s strike rate of 153.23 and average of 32.76 are statistically strong by general IPL standards, they pale in comparison to the whirlwind form currently displayed by his teenage counterpart.

Looking Ahead to Qualifier 2

Despite the off-field chatter, the Rajasthan Royals remain focused on the task at hand. The franchise is gearing up for a high-stakes encounter against the Gujarat Titans in Qualifier 2. The match is scheduled to take place at the Mullanpur Stadium in New Chandigarh this Friday, May 29. With a spot in the IPL 2026 final on the line, the performance of the opening duo will once again be the central talking point for fans and analysts alike.

Whether Jaiswal chooses to remain with the Royals or seeks new pastures in the future remains a matter of speculation. For now, the focus is squarely on the action on the pitch as the Royals aim to continue their push for the championship trophy.

Tanay Hughes

Tanay Hughes is a senior cricket correspondent for the Daily FT, Sri Lanka’s leading financial daily. Of Burgher descent, Hughes grew up steeped in the island’s rich literary and cricketing traditions. He covers the national team, the World Test Championship, and the domestic circuit with a special focus on spin bowling and the transformation of cricket infrastructure after the civil war. His work also explores the business side of the sport, including broadcasting deals and the financial pressures on smaller Test-playing nations. A Colombo native and University of Colombo graduate, Hughes is a regular voice on Sri Lankan television panels and contributes to The Cricketer and Wisden online.