14-Year-Old Vaibhav Suryavanshi Becomes Youngest IPL Debutant, Smashes 34 Runs in Style
At just 14 years and 23 days, Vaibhav Suryavanshi made history in the Indian Premier League (IPL) as its youngest-ever debutant, and he did it with flair. Representing the Rajasthan Royals, the teenage sensation was brought into the playing XI against Lucknow Super Giants as an impact substitute for the rested captain Sanju Samson. Facing a target of 181, Suryavanshi opened with Yashasvi Jaiswal and immediately made his presence felt by launching Shardul Thakur for a six over extra cover — off the very first ball he faced. The audacity of the shot left commentators stunned. Former Australia all-rounder Shane Watson, on-air during the game, exclaimed, “My word, what the hell was that? One of the hardest shots in cricket is to gain power over cover off the front shoe … Power to burn from the 14-year-old. What a way to announce yourself to the world.” Inspired by his idol, Brian Lara, the left-handed batter continued in attacking fashion, hitting two more sixes en route to a 20-ball 34. His opening stand of 85 runs with Jaiswal laid a strong foundation, though Rajasthan ultimately fell short by two runs. Speaking after the game, Rajasthan Royals’ spin bowling coach Sairaj Bahutule praised the youngster: “It was important to give him an opportunity. He batted well in the nets, his preparation was good. Obviously, we missed Sanju, but it created an opportunity for Vaibhav and he made the most of it. He batted beautifully.” Bahutule added, “He’s a great kid with a really good head on his shoulders. He’s got a game that’s almost 360 degrees. He’s courageous, dominating, and wants to play his shots. His theory is, ‘watch the ball, hit the ball’.” Vaibhav Suryavanshi first made waves in November when he became the youngest-ever player to secure an IPL contract at just 13 years old, with Rajasthan Royals outbidding Delhi Capitals to sign him for ₹1.1 crore ($128,750). Even before his IPL debut, he had turned heads by playing in the Ranji Trophy at age 12 and scoring a century off just 58 balls against Australia while representing India’s Under-19 team. With his fearless debut and natural flair, the cricketing world may have just witnessed the birth of its next superstar.
