Kaif, renowned for his elite fielding during his playing days, pointed out lapses involving Sooryavanshi and Yash Raj Punia during the Rajasthan Royals’ match against Delhi Capitals at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Sunday, May 17.
In a high-scoring encounter, Delhi Capitals successfully chased down a 194-run target with five wickets in hand and four balls to spare, a result that further complicated Rajasthan Royals’ already difficult path to the playoffs.
Kaif’s criticism stemmed from key moments in the field, including a misfield by Sooryavanshi at deep fine-leg and a dropped catch by Yash Raj Punia when KL Rahul was on zero. Expressing disappointment on social media platform X, Kaif wrote that it was “painful to watch” the standard of fielding in the IPL and urged young players to take greater responsibility.
He further stressed that if Sooryavanshi is to represent India, he must become “sharper on the field,” adding that coaching staff should prioritize developing fielding skills while players themselves must take pride in their work on the field.
Despite concerns over his fielding, Sooryavanshi once again showcased his batting talent, scoring a blistering 46 off 21 balls with five sixes and three fours in the same match. Following the IPL season, he is expected to feature for India A in a tri-series involving Sri Lanka A and Afghanistan A.
