A Historic IPL Signing
Vaibhav Suryavanshi, a 13-year-old cricket prodigy from Bihar, has etched his name in history as the youngest player ever signed in the Indian Premier League (IPL). During the IPL 2024 mega auction held in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, Suryavanshi was acquired by the Rajasthan Royals for a remarkable INR 1.1 crore. This signing surpasses the record held by Afghanistan’s Allah Ghazanfar, who was previously the youngest player to join the league.
The Rajasthan Royals secured Suryavanshi’s contract after a fierce bidding war with the Delhi Capitals. Coached by Indian cricket legend Rahul Dravid, the franchise aims to nurture the talented young batter as he embarks on this significant journey.
A Prodigy’s Journey So Far
Vaibhav’s cricketing achievements extend beyond the IPL. Earlier this year, he became the youngest cricketer to score an international century at just 13 years and 288 days. He achieved this milestone with a sensational 104 off 62 balls during a Youth Test match for India Under-19 against Australia Under-19 in Chennai, breaking Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto’s record of 14 years and 241 days.
Vaibhav has already represented Bihar in the Ranji Trophy, debuting against Mumbai earlier this year, and recently played his first T20 match on November 23. His selection for the Rajasthan Royals followed a stellar performance in trials held in Nagpur, where he demonstrated his big-hitting abilities by smashing three sixes in a simulated match situation.
Allegations of Age Fraud
Despite his meteoric rise, Vaibhav has faced allegations of age fraud, with some claiming he is 15 instead of 13. Addressing these claims, Vaibhav’s father, Sanjiv Suryavanshi, stated, “He underwent a BCCI bone test when he was 8 and a half years old. He has already played for India Under-19, and we are ready for any tests to prove his age.”
Sanjiv dismissed the controversy, emphasizing his son’s dedication to cricket and hard work. “We are not afraid of anyone. Vaibhav’s focus has always been on playing cricket,” he told PTI.
A Family’s Dedication to Cricket
Hailing from Motipur village, 15 kilometers from Samastipur, Vaibhav’s journey has been one of immense sacrifice and commitment. Sanjiv, a farmer, sold parts of his land to fund his son’s cricket training. “Cricket is a significant investment, and we’ve given everything for his passion. Things are still not fully stable, but we are proud of him,” Sanjiv said.
Recalling Vaibhav’s childhood, Sanjiv shared how his son excelled in U-16 district trials at the age of 8. “He used to be a fan of Doremon cartoons, but now it’s all about cricket,” he remarked proudly.
Future Prospects
Vaibhav is currently in Dubai, preparing for the Under-19 Asia Cup. India’s first match in the tournament is scheduled for November 30 against Pakistan at the ICC Academy Ground.
Sanjiv concluded by highlighting the pride Vaibhav has brought to their state. “He’s no longer just our son; he’s the pride of Bihar,” he said, reflecting on the young cricketer’s incredible achievements and future potential.
As Vaibhav gears up for the IPL and international competitions, the cricketing world will be keenly watching his rise.
