.png){kind=logo}
Rajasthan Royals has clarified that ChatGPT did not independently discover Vaibhav Suryavanshi during IPL 2026. AI supported the scouting process alongside data, scouts and cricket experts.
RR COO Alok Chitre explained the process during a Hindustan Times discussion with RR technology leaders and OpenAI India. The franchise combined AI tools with traditional scouting to spot young talent.
Chitre confirmed technology played a role in finding Suryavanshi, while human judgment remained important. “Part of it? Yes,” Chitre said when asked whether AI helped identify the young batter.
RR uses technology to study large amounts of cricket data more quickly. The system can help teams spot player patterns and performance details during scouting.
Scouts still watch players closely before the franchise makes important decisions. Coaches also bring experience and cricket knowledge that AI cannot fully measure.
Rajasthan Royals uses AI for several other parts of its IPL operations. These areas include auction planning, ticket sales, fan engagement and content creation.
The franchise also held a GenAI hackathon before an auction. Participants created models that suggested possible 25-player squad combinations for Rajasthan Royals.
RR later used some recommendations from the event during its planning process. The experiment showed how AI can support auction decisions without replacing management.
The franchise also uses AI agents to study ticket sales and stadium occupancy. These tools can help identify empty sections and changing demand during matches.
RR has also created an in-house GenAI studio for content production. ChatGPT helps create photoshoot ideas and visual concepts for commercial campaigns.
OpenAI and Rajasthan Royals both support a human-led approach to AI. Technology can process information quickly, while cricket experts make the final calls.
Suryavanshi’s story shows how modern scouting is changing. AI can help find useful patterns, while scouts still bring instinct, experience and cricket knowledge.
Also Read: Gemini Hits 1 Billion Users: Can Google AI Beat ChatGPT?
