'Jo uska whip aata hai...': Ambati Rayudu on how Vaibhav Suryavanshi can become India's Brian Lara

Vaibhav Suryavanshi, a 14-year-old cricketer from Bihar, became one of the biggest talking points of IPL 2025. Picked by Rajasthan Royals for ₹1.10 crore at the mega auctions, he played seven matches and scored 252 runs. His tally included a century off just 35 balls, the fastest hundred by an Indian in the IPL.

Former India wicketkeeper Ambati Rayudu praised the teenager’s batting style and backed him for higher honours. Speaking on Shubhankar Mishra’s podcast, Rayudu highlighted Suryavanshi’s natural ability with the bat.

Ambati Rayudu Praises Vaibhav Suryavanshi

"His bat speed is extraordinary. Jo uska whip aata hai... I hope nobody changes that. He should get better. Someone like Lara... maybe go and talk to him. He also had a similar type of bat lift. So he can learn about how to control the bat speed when you are defending and when you are playing with a soft hand. So if he learns that, then he will be an extraordinary talent," said Rayudu.

Rayudu also advised the youngster to stay focused on his own game.

"He only has to focus on one thing, and that is he should not listen to many people. Don't listen to people; just back your talent. And for coaches also, it is important that usko zyada gyaan mat do. Leave him," he added.

Backing from Rajasthan Royals setup

Rayudu said Suryavanshi is in the right environment with Rajasthan Royals and their head coach Rahul Dravid.
"He's extraordinary talent. Agar sambhal ke usko sahi guide karenge... He is lucky that Rahul (Dravid) bhai is with him. Rahul Bhai will take care of him," Rayudu remarked.

After his IPL debut, Suryavanshi also delivered strong performances in youth internationals. On the England tour last month, he scored a 52-ball century in the fourth ODI against England under-19. At 14, he became the fastest-known centurion in Youth ODIs, setting a new world record.