Key Points
- Vaibhav Suryavanshi becomes the youngest player in IPL history, debuting at 14 years and 23 days for Rajasthan Royals.
- Hits a six off his very first IPL ball, joining an elite club of debutants with first-ball sixes.
- Scores a fearless 34 off 20 balls (3 sixes, 2 fours) as an Impact Player against Lucknow Super Giants.
- Previously made Ranji Trophy debut for Bihar at age 12 and holds the record for fastest U-19 Test century by an Indian.
- Rajasthan Royals bought him for ₹1.10 crore after a bidding war in the 2025 IPL Mega Auction.
New Delhi: Cricket fans witnessed history at Jaipur’s Sawai Mansingh Stadium as 14-year-old Vaibhav Suryavanshi made his Indian Premier League debut for Rajasthan Royals, instantly becoming the youngest player ever to feature in the tournament. The left-handed prodigy, hailing from Samastipur in Bihar, was brought in as an Impact Player and seized his moment with a display of audacious strokeplay and composure far beyond his years.
Dream Debut: First-Ball Six and a Fearless Knock
Opening the innings alongside Yashasvi Jaiswal, Vaibhav announced himself in style by lofting India international Shardul Thakur for a six over extra cover off his very first ball a feat that left commentators and fans in awe. He followed up with another six and a four off Avesh Khan in the next over, racing to 34 off just 20 balls at a strike rate of 170, including three sixes and two boundaries.
Suryavanshi’s debut innings included an 85-run partnership with Jaiswal, giving RR a strong start in their chase of 181. His fearless approach and shot selection drew widespread praise, with even IPL legends expressing their amazement. The young star was eventually stumped by Rishabh Pant off Aiden Markram, leaving the field emotional and teary-eyed after his remarkable effort.
Shattering Records: Youngest IPL Player and More
Vaibhav’s debut rewrote the IPL record books:
- Youngest IPL debutant: 14 years, 23 days, smashing the previous record held by Prayas Ray Barman (16 years, 157 days).
- First-ball six on debut: Only the 10th player in IPL history to achieve this milestone.
- Youngest IPL crorepati: Bought for ₹1.10 crore in the 2025 Mega Auction after a fierce bidding war with Delhi Capitals.
Rising Star: From Bihar to the Big League
Vaibhav’s cricket journey began in his backyard at age 4, with early support from his father. By age 12, he was already making headlines, scoring 400 runs in five matches in the Vinoo Mankad Trophy and debuting in the Ranji Trophy for Bihar at just 12 years and 284 days one of the youngest ever in Indian first-class cricket.
His reputation soared after a blistering 58-ball century (104 off 62) for India U-19 against Australia, the fastest U-19 Test hundred by an Indian and second fastest globally. He continued to impress in the Under-19 Asia Cup, smashing 67 off 36 balls in the semifinal against Sri Lanka and 76* against UAE, helping India reach the final.
Youngest Debutants in IPL History
| Player | Age | Team | Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vaibhav Suryavanshi | 14 years, 23 days | Rajasthan Royals | 2025 |
| Prayas Ray Barman | 16 years, 157 days | Royal Challengers | 2019 |
| Mujeeb Ur Rahman | 17 years, 11 days | Kings XI Punjab | 2018 |
| Riyan Parag | 17 years, 152 days | Rajasthan Royals | 2019 |
| Pradeep Sangwan | 17 years, 179 days | Delhi Daredevils | 2008 |
What’s Next?
With his fearless approach, record-breaking feats, and maturity at such a young age, Vaibhav Suryavanshi is already being hailed as one of the brightest prospects in Indian cricket. Rajasthan Royals’ investment and faith in youth continue to pay off, as the IPL’s youngest star looks set for a glittering future.
Vaibhav’s journey from Bihar’s fields to the IPL limelight is just beginning, but his debut has already etched his name into cricketing folklore.
