Rajasthan Royals’ Vaibhav Suryavanshi, the youngest player in IPL history, has taken the cricketing world by storm with his fearless batting display against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). At just 14 years and 23 days old, Suryavanshi smashed 34 runs off 20 balls, including a stunning first-ball six off Shardul Thakur, marking a dream debut in the IPL 2025 season.
Former Pakistan Cricketer Basit Ali’s Verdict
Former Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali praised Suryavanshi’s confidence, stating that such bold performances are nurtured in India, whereas in Pakistan, young players often face harsh criticism for aggressive play. “If he had gotten out trying to hit the first ball for six, people in Pakistan would have said, ‘Throw him out.’ But this is how confidence is given, which later pays off,” Ali remarked.
Suryavanshi’s Rise to IPL Stardom
Suryavanshi was acquired by Rajasthan Royals for ₹1.1 crore in the IPL 2025 mega auction, making history as the youngest player to secure an IPL contract. His fearless approach has drawn comparisons to emerging stars like Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Shubman Gill, who flourished after being given the freedom to express themselves on the field.
Future Prospects
With his impressive debut, Suryavanshi has positioned himself as a promising talent for Indian cricket. Experts believe that playing alongside seasoned players like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma will further refine his skills and prepare him for international success.
