In a historic move during the IPL 2025 auction, 13-year-old Vaibhav Suryavanshi from Bihar became the youngest cricketer ever signed in the league’s history. The Rajasthan Royals secured the young prodigy for ₹1.1 crore, making him an overnight crorepati and a player to watch in the upcoming season.
Vaibhav’s rise to fame has been nothing short of meteoric. Hailing from Samastipur, Bihar, he made his Ranji Trophy debut at just 12 years and 284 days, and in the same season, delivered a stunning performance in the Youth Test series against Australia, scoring a blistering 104 off 62 balls. His achievements have drawn comparisons to cricket legends like Sachin Tendulkar and Yuvraj Singh, who also set records in their teens.
Age Controversy Looms
However, Vaibhav’s remarkable journey has been overshadowed by an age controversy. Critics allege that Vaibhav is 15, not the 13 years and 288 days he declared. His father, Sanjiv Suryavanshi, has firmly denied the allegations, citing previous BCCI bone tests that confirmed Vaibhav’s age at 8 and a half years.
“We are ready to undergo any verification again,” Sanjiv stated. “Vaibhav has worked tirelessly and has already proven himself at various levels, including the U-19 trials.”
Dazzling Performance Earns IPL Contract
Vaibhav’s selection followed an impressive trial session for Rajasthan Royals in Nagpur, where he smashed eight sixes and four boundaries. In a pressure scenario requiring 17 runs off the final over, he struck three sixes, leaving the Royals’ coaching staff, including batting coach Vikram Rathour, in awe.
Record-Breaking Auction Highlights
The IPL 2025 auction was full of drama, with notable signings including:
- Rishabh Pant: The star wicketkeeper-batsman became the most expensive player in IPL history, sold to Lucknow Super Giants for ₹27 crore.
- Shreyas Iyer: Acquired by Punjab Kings for ₹26.75 crore.
- Arshdeep Singh: Picked by Punjab for $2.13 million after a fierce bidding war.
With 577 players up for grabs in the Jeddah-hosted auction, Vaibhav’s inclusion stood out as a significant moment, marking the entry of the youngest-ever player into the IPL.
What Lies Ahead
As Vaibhav gears up for his debut, cricket enthusiasts worldwide are eager to see how he performs under the IPL spotlight. Despite the ongoing debate surrounding his age, his undeniable talent has already left an indelible mark on Indian cricket.
With Rajasthan Royals banking on his potential, all eyes will be on the teenage sensation as he embarks on the biggest journey of his career.
