Why Was Vaibhav Sooryavanshi Unhappy? RR Coach Explains Teen Star’s Reaction in IPL 2026

Rajasthan Royals teenage star Vaibhav Suryavanshi's visible frustration during recent matches has sparked discussion among fans, but the reason behind his reaction appears to be linked to his role as an Impact Player rather than any deeper issue with the team.

According to a report by MensXP, Rajasthan Royals assistant coach Trevor Penny clarified that the youngster's disappointment stemmed from missing fielding opportunities due to team combinations.

The 15-year-old has been one of the breakout stars of IPL 2026, with scores of 52, 31, 39 and 78 in his first four matches before registering a golden duck against Sunrisers Hyderabad. He currently averages around 40 with a strike rate above 260, placing him among the leading run-scorers this season.

Assistant coach explains reason behind Vaibhav Sooryavanshi frustration

Trevor Penny explained that Suryavanshi was disappointed about not being able to field, something he enjoys as part of his all-round involvement in the game.

"The last game he missed out on (fielding), he wasn't very happy because he loves his fielding. It's not because he's a poor fielder," he told Star Sports during the SRH vs RR match.

Penny added that the decision was based purely on team balance rather than individual performance.

"Donovan has passed his fitness test. He broke his collarbone in the SA20. He's a gun fielder. It's good to have him back on the field. Sadly, Vaibhav misses out," he added.

Impact Player role behind limited fielding time

Sooryavanshi has been used as an Impact Player in several matches, meaning he enters primarily as a batter and does not always take part in fielding duties.

With Donovan Ferreira returning to full fitness and reclaiming his role as a key fielder, team management opted to prioritise combinations that best suited match situations.

The coaching staff clarified that Sooryavanshi's absence from fielding was tactical rather than performance-related.

Teen sensation continues to impress in IPL 2026

Despite the brief disappointment over fielding opportunities, Sooryavanshi's performances with the bat have been among the highlights of the season.

Having turned 15 just before the tournament, he continues to justify the hype around him after becoming the youngest IPL debutant and centurion in previous seasons.

Across his IPL appearances so far, the young batter has compiled over 450 runs at a strike rate above 220, including a century and multiple half-centuries.

With Rajasthan Royals currently leading the IPL 2026 points table, Sooryavanshi remains a central figure in their title push as the tournament progresses.