Daijiworld Media Network – Patna
Patna, May 30: At just 14 years old, Patna-born Vaibhav Suryavanshi has rewritten Indian Premier League (IPL) history, becoming the youngest-ever player to score a century in the tournament. Representing Rajasthan Royals, the teenage sensation smashed a 35-ball hundred against Gujarat Titans, the fastest IPL ton by an Indian breaking Yusuf Pathan’s long-standing record.
Bihar Cricket Association (BCA) president Rakesh Tiwari hailed the young batter’s achievement, calling it a "testament to Bihar’s rich but under-recognised cricketing talent."
“We identified Vaibhav’s promise early and supported his growth. His success underlines what Bihar is capable of producing with the right opportunities and support,” Tiwari said, while also thanking Prime Minister Narendra Modi for acknowledging the young cricketer’s rise.
Prime Minister Modi, who met Vaibhav and his family at Patna airport, posted on X, “At Patna airport, met the young cricketing sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi and his family. His cricketing skills are being admired all over the nation! My best wishes to him for his future endeavours.”
Tiwari also pointed to the state’s recent grassroots efforts, including the ‘Search for Bowlers’ campaign launched to identify bowling talent across Bihar. “We are confident more Vaibhavs will emerge from our villages and towns,” he said.
Vaibhav’s phenomenal form has now earned him a spot in the Indian U19 squad for the England tour starting June 24, which includes five Youth ODIs and two Youth Tests.
The IPL wasn’t his first taste of fame. In January 2024, Vaibhav became the youngest Indian to make a first-class debut, playing for Bihar at just 12 years and 284 days. He followed it up with a quickfire 71 off 42 balls in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, becoming the youngest Indian to score a List-A half-century.
Internationally, he made headlines with a 58-ball youth Test century against Australia U19 and played a key role in India’s U19 Asia Cup campaign, scoring two vital fifties.
Tiwari summed it up best: “Vaibhav’s journey is not just his personal triumph, but a proud moment for Bihar. With the right guidance and platforms, our youth can shine on the global stage.”