On April 28, 2025, the Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur bore witness to a cricketing marvel as 14-year-old Vaibhav Suryavanshi of the Rajasthan Royals delivered a performance for the ages. Facing the Gujarat Titans in a high-stakes IPL 2025 encounter, Suryavanshi etched his name into the annals of cricket history by becoming the youngest male cricketer to score a T20 century. His blistering 101 off just 38 balls not only showcased his prodigious talent but also marked the second-fastest century in IPL history, trailing only Chris Gayle’s 30-ball feat in 2013.
Breaking Records with Every Stroke
Suryavanshi’s innings was a masterclass in aggressive batting. Reaching his half-century in a mere 17 balls, he set a new benchmark as the youngest player to score a T20 fifty, surpassing the previous record held by Afghanistan’s Hassan Eisakhil. His century came just 18 balls later, filled with 11 towering sixes and seven boundaries. This explosive performance not only led the Royals to a commanding eight-wicket victory, chasing down a daunting target of 210 in just 15.5 overs, but also ended their five-match losing streak, reigniting their playoff aspirations.
A Meteoric Rise from Bihar
Hailing from Samastipur, Bihar, Suryavanshi’s journey to the IPL has been nothing short of extraordinary. At just 12 years and 284 days, he became the youngest player to debut in the Ranji Trophy, breaking records previously held by legends like Sachin Tendulkar and Yuvraj Singh. His exploits continued as he scored a 58-ball century for India’s Under-19 team against Australia, further solidifying his reputation as a cricketing prodigy.
Recognizing his immense potential, the Rajasthan Royals secured Suryavanshi’s services for ₹1.1 crore during the IPL 2025 mega auction, making him the youngest player ever to be sold in the league’s history.
Mentorship and Team Support
Under the guidance of head coach Rahul Dravid and captain Sanju Samson, Suryavanshi has found a nurturing environment conducive to his development. Dravid emphasized the importance of gradual exposure to high-pressure situations, ensuring the young talent is well-prepared for the rigors of professional cricket.
Samson, impressed by Suryavanshi’s confidence and power-hitting abilities, remarked on his readiness to make an impact in the IPL. The Royals’ commitment to fostering young talent has been evident, with Suryavanshi being the latest in a line of promising cricketers to benefit from their developmental approach.
A Star in the Making
Suryavanshi’s record-breaking century has garnered praise from cricketing legends and fans alike. His fearless approach and maturity beyond his years have drawn comparisons to some of the game’s greats. As he continues to evolve and adapt to the challenges of professional cricket, the young prodigy’s journey serves as an inspiration, highlighting the boundless possibilities that talent, hard work, and the right support system can achieve.
With the cricketing world watching, Vaibhav Suryavanshi stands poised to be a defining figure in the sport’s future, embodying the spirit of youthful exuberance and the promise of greatness.