In match number 36 of IPL 2025, we had the emergence of a fantastic young star, Vaibhav Suryavanshi. On debut for the Rajasthan Royals, the now officially 14-year-old opening batter scored 34 runs from only 20 balls. He was off to a flyer with a six over cover off his opening ball from India international Shardul Thakur. Despite the Royals losing by 2 runs, Suryavanshi’s run-a-ball innings received high praise.
Record-Breaking Youngest IPL Player
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Official records claim that Vaibhav Suryavanshi was 14 years and 23 days old when he made his debut, becoming the youngest player ever to play in the IPL. This shattered the earlier record set by RCB’s Prayas Ray Barman, who played in 2019 at 16 years and 157 days.
Rising Through the Ranks
Suryavanshi did not get to the IPL just by chance. He had already played first-class cricket for Bihar and had played Ranji Trophy matches vs Mumbai.
He had played for the India U-19 teams at the U-19 Asia Cup, and overall had scored a massive century against Australia U-19 in a four-day match. This was a clear indicator that he was ready for the big league, leading to the Rajasthan Royals buying him for INR 1 crore in the IPL auction.
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The Vaibhav Suryavanshi Age Debate
Despite all his outstanding feats, doubts have been raised about Vaibhav Suryavanshi’s age. A recent 2023 interview has cast doubts on the records. During the interview, Suryavanshi had mentioned that he would be turning 14 on September 27, 2023. If that is correct, his birth year would be 2009, which makes him 15 years and 202 days old at the time of his IPL debut—not 14 as reported.”.
Still a Record-Holder
Even assuming the updated Vaibhav Suryavanshi age, he would still hold the record of being the youngest IPL player, bettering the old record by quite a long time. The controversy, though, has ignited debate regarding age proof in sub-junior and professional cricket leagues in India.
Final Thoughts
Even as the Vaibhav Suryavanshi age controversy raises questions, it does not take away from the teenage players’ amazing skill and composure on the field. Whether he is 14 or 15, Suryavanshi’s fearless character and level-headedness in his first-ever performance show he has a future ahead. Keep an eye on this cricketer’s career.
ALSO READ: IPL 2025: How KKR Can Still Qualify For The Playoffs After Loss To GT
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