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Former India captain Anil Kumble believes teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi is capable of breaking Chris Gayle’s long-standing IPL record for the most sixes in a single season, saying the youngster’s fearless strokeplay and mature mindset make him a rare talent.

Sooryavanshi continued his sensational run in IPL 2026 with another explosive knock as Rajasthan Royals defeated Lucknow Super Giants by seven wickets on Tuesday to keep their playoff hopes alive.

The 15-year-old opener has already hammered 53 sixes this season and now stands just six maximums away from Gayle’s record of 59 sixes in a single IPL edition.

Speaking on Star Sports, Kumble said he expects the youngster to create history if Rajasthan progress further in the tournament.

“He has already hit 53 sixes this IPL season. Chris Gayle holds the record for most sixes in a season with 59. RR have one more league game and then the playoffs. If they win, he will get more chances. I can see Vaibhav Sooryavanshi breaking Gayle's record and making history,” Kumble said.

The legendary spinner was particularly impressed with Sooryavanshi’s ability to clear the ropes with ease, especially against spin.

“Very few batters can hit sixes over cover with such ease. But Sooryavanshi did it multiple times against Digvesh Rathi. I am glad people still have words to describe such talent. I am running out of my own vocabulary. This kid is very special,” he added.

Kumble also praised the teenager’s maturity despite the growing spotlight and praise surrounding him.

“What stands out even more is his mindset. Every time he speaks, he sounds mature beyond his years. That is crucial at this age, especially with all the attention and praise coming his way,” Kumble said.

According to Kumble, Sooryavanshi’s grounded attitude suggests he is focused on building a long-term career rather than getting carried away by early success.

“He understands that this is just the start. He said it himself after the match: ‘This is the start of my journey. If my journey is long enough, I will create a few of these records,’” Kumble noted.

Kumble also highlighted the important role played by Yashasvi Jaiswal during Rajasthan’s chase of 220 runs.

“In a chase of 220, winning the powerplay is crucial. RR needed a flying start, but Sooryavanshi began a little cautiously. That is when Yashasvi Jaiswal stepped up. He took on the bowlers and scored 43 quick runs,” Kumble explained.

“Once Sooryavanshi got his eye in, the game changed. He started finding the gaps and clearing the boundaries with ease. It allowed Sooryavanshi to play himself in without worrying about the run rate and once he was set, he tore the bowling attack apart,” he added.