14-Year-Old Vaibhav Suryavanshi Smashes Debut Ball for SIX in Spectacular IPL Moment

Talk about announcing yourself on the big stage. Rajasthan Royals’ 14-year-old prodigy Vaibhav Suryavanshi became the youngest player to feature in the IPL during their clash against Lucknow Super Giants — and what a debut it was.

Most would’ve expected some nerves from a boy barely into his teens, but Vaibhav showed none of it. Facing seasoned India pacer Shardul Thakur first up, he calmly leaned into a gorgeous cover drive that sailed over the ropes for six. One ball, one six — and the IPL had a new star to watch. He looked right at home, going on to score a fluent 34 that included three sixes and two fours. His timing, footwork, and temperament were far beyond his years. Unfortunately, the dream fifty wasn’t to be, as he was stumped by Rishabh Pant off Aiden Markram’s bowling. Vaibhav was visibly dejected — he knew he was close. But even in that moment, it was clear: this was just the beginning of what could be a special journey. 

Born on 27th March, Vaibhav only just turned 14. He was picked up by Rajasthan Royals for ₹1.1 crore during the last mega auction, becoming the youngest ever to earn an IPL contract. And it’s easy to see why. The left-handed batter has already represented India at the Under-19 level, making headlines with a 58-ball hundred against Australia in a four-day match. He was a key part of India’s run to the U-19 Asia Cup final in 2024, scoring 176 runs at an average of 44. And yes, he already has a triple century to his name — an unbeaten 332 in the Randhir Verma Tournament in Bihar. 

Ahead of the game, stand-in skipper Riyan Parag had said, “Vaibhav the youngster comes in. It's been kinda tricky, we've been doing small bits right but we haven't been able to put a collective performance together… We love playing here, we know the conditions well, hope we can put that to good use.” 

RR head coach Rahul Dravid also spoke about the youngster earlier this season. “He is training really well, and he looks like a really good and exciting talent… but part of our responsibility is to groom him well, give him time in the environment, let him get used to it… if an opportunity arises, we won’t be scared to play him if it is required.” Turns out, the opportunity did come — and Vaibhav Suryavanshi didn’t just grab it. He smashed it over cover for six. 

Also Read: Abhishek Nayar Appointed as New Assistant Coach of KKR for IPL 2025