"He cannot be overshadowed every time”: Rayudu urges Jaiswal to leave RR amid Sooryavanshi’s dominance

Rayudu made the remarks after Sooryavanshi’s blistering 97 off 29 balls powered Rajasthan Royals to victory in the IPL 2026 Eliminator, while Jaiswal managed 29 off 29 deliveries in the same match.

Jaiswal, who joined Rajasthan Royals in 2020, has scored 2,592 runs in 82 matches for the franchise and emerged as one of India’s brightest batting prospects following his breakthrough 2023 IPL season, when he scored more than 600 runs at an average of 48.07.

However, the 2026 season has seen Sooryavanshi dominate headlines. The young opener has amassed 680 runs and currently holds the Orange Cap, while Jaiswal has scored 426 runs in 15 matches in a campaign marked by inconsistency.

Photo: Rajasthan Royals/X

Speaking to ESPNcricinfo, Rayudu said Jaiswal needed a fresh environment to rediscover his identity as a leading batter.

“He needs to change his game because he cannot just bat with the guy and be overshadowed every single time,” Rayudu said.

“He is a star in his own right. If he goes to another team, he will win games on his own. He needs space and a platform because this guy will continue to overshadow people,” he added.

Rayudu also suggested that Jaiswal could thrive at another franchise, naming Mumbai Indians as a possible destination.

“MI could be a great team for Jaiswal,” he said.