In a moment that will be etched in cricketing history, 14-year-old Vaibhav Suryavanshi from Bihar made a sensational debut for the Rajasthan Royals in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025. Facing the Lucknow Super Giants, Suryavanshi not only became the youngest player to participate in the IPL but also announced his arrival by hitting a six on the very first ball he faced.
Born on March 27, 2011, Suryavanshi's journey to the IPL has been nothing short of extraordinary. His cricketing prowess was evident early on, with notable performances in domestic circuits, including a 58-ball century in a U-19 Test match at the age of 13 and a triple century in a Bihar under-19 tournament. These feats caught the attention of scouts, leading to his selection by the Rajasthan Royals for a sum of ₹1.1 crore in the IPL auction.
Making his debut as an impact substitute, Suryavanshi showcased maturity beyond his years. Partnering with Yashasvi Jaiswal, he contributed to an explosive 85-run opening stand, scoring 34 runs off 20 balls, including two sixes and three fours. His fearless approach and composure against seasoned bowlers drew admiration from fans and experts alike.
However, the match wasn't without its emotional moments. After being stumped by Rishabh Pant, Suryavanshi was seen walking back to the dugout with tears in his eyes, overwhelmed by the occasion. Commentator Murali Kartik noted, "I got the feeling that he was crying, he was weeping."
Suryavanshi's debut has sparked conversations about the nurturing of young talent in Indian cricket. His father, who made significant sacrifices to support his son's dreams, emphasized the importance of proper age verification, stating that bone tests confirmed his son's age amidst skepticism.
The young prodigy's performance has not only inspired budding cricketers across the nation but also highlighted the potential of India's youth in the sport. As the IPL continues, all eyes will be on Suryavanshi to see how he builds on this remarkable start to his career.