Kavya Maran and Vaibhav Sooryavanshi (Source: X and AP)
Rajasthan Royals (RR) youngster Vaibhav Sooryavanshi played a stunning knock against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in the Eliminator match at Mullanpur. The 15-year-old batter smashed 97 runs off just 29 balls and almost broke Chris Gayle's record for the fastest century in IPL history.
However, Vaibhav was dismissed while batting on 97, missing the historic milestone by just three runs.
Even though he failed to complete the hundred, the teenager received a standing ovation from fans and players for his fearless batting.
His innings completely changed the match and helped Rajasthan Royals secure a dominant 47-run win over SRH to qualify for Qualifier 2.
Kavya Maran's reaction goes viral after Sooryavanshi's wicket
After Vaibhav Sooryavanshi got out, cameras quickly focused on Sunrisers Hyderabad owner Kavya Maran in the stands. She looked disappointed by the damage caused to her team, but she still applauded the youngster with slow claps.
Also Read: Pakistan Team Owner Reacts To Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's Mayhem vs SRH
Her reaction immediately became a major talking point on social media. While some users criticised her expressions, Sooryavanshi's wicket during SRH vs RR match.
Kavya Maran personally meets Vaibhav Sooryavanshi
Following the SRH vs RR match, Kavya Maran took a classy step by personally meeting and greeting Vaibhav Sooryavanshi. She was seen shaking hands with the teenager and briefly chatting with him after the game.
The moment quickly went viral online, with many fans appreciating the SRH owner's sportsmanship.
Despite SRH's painful defeat, Kavya Maran made sure to congratulate the player who almost scripted IPL history with one of the most explosive innings ever played in the tournament.
Watch the video here:
How did Vaibhav Sooryavanshi attack SRH's bowling attack?
The fact cannot be denied that young batter Vaibhav Sooryavanshi completely dominated the Sunrisers Hyderabad bowlers. Playing with fearless intent, Sooryavanshi smashed 97 runs at a stunning strike rate of 334.48.
From the very first over, SRH bowlers Pat Cummins, Eshan Malinga, Praful Hinge and Sakib Hussain looked helpless against his attacking style.
What made Sooryavanshi's knock special in SRH vs RR match was his fearless mindset. Most young batters take time to settle in high-pressure playoff matches. But Sooryavanshi showed no fear at all.
Another major reason behind his success was how well he used the powerplay overs. During the powerplay, only two fielders are allowed outside the circle, which gives batters a chance to attack.
Sooryavanshi fully used this advantage. He targeted the gaps, played lofted shots over the fielders, and punished every loose delivery.
When will RR play next?
It is important to note that the Rajasthan Royals will face the Gujarat Titans on May 29 in Qualifier 2. The game will be played at the PCA New Cricket Stadium.
The winner of the Qualifier 2 (RR or GT) will play against Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the Final on May 31 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.
Also Read: Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's Trade From RR Stamped By IPL's Top Boss
