New Delhi: Former Mumbai wicketkeeper-batter Aditya Tare has praised the audacious batting style of Rajasthan Royals (RR) opener Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, describing the teenager's ability to challenge elite bowlers in IPL 2026 as "phenomenal."

Sooryavanshi currently occupies the fifth position on the league's leading run-scorer list, having accumulated 404 runs this season. He is expected to be a focal point of the Royals' offence as they prepare to face the Gujarat Titans (GT) at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium on Saturday evening.

Tare, speaking on Star Sports, characterised Sooryavanshi’s methodology as one defined by aggression and a lack of intimidation, despite the inherent dangers of his role.

“Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's batting approach is high‑risk, especially in the powerplay," Tare noted. "He will sometimes get out, going for big shots, but that's his natural game. He doesn't let pressure build. He attacks from the very first ball. That's what makes him who he is.”

The former cricketer referenced Sooryavanshi’s history against the Titans, specifically a century he recorded in Jaipur during the previous season, as a blueprint for success. Tare expressed hope that the young batter could prolong his time at the crease while maintaining his signature intensity during the Powerplay.

Gujarat Titans' Middle-Order Struggles

Turning his attention to the opposition, Tare highlighted a persistent inability within the Gujarat Titans lineup to finalise run chases efficiently. He noted that while the team often benefits from strong foundations provided by the top order, the middle and lower-order batters have struggled to conclude matches decisively.

According to Tare, GT batting coach Matthew Hayden is actively addressing these late-innings complications with key personnel.

“He is working with players like Rahul Tewatia and Washington Sundar to help them close out matches without letting them go deep. Too often, the chase gets tighter than it should,” Tare observed.

While the Titans' batting remains a work in progress, Tare offered a more positive assessment of their defensive unit. He described the bowling attack as "well settled," pointing to the team's diverse pace options and the consistent form of leg-spinner Rashid Khan as significant assets heading into the weekend clash.

With inputs from IANS