In a stunning turn of events, the Indian Premier League (IPL) has welcomed its youngest-ever player, Vaibhav Suryavanshi from Bihar. He is just 13 years old and has been signed by the Rajasthan Royals for a remarkable INR 1.10 crore (USD 130.4k) in the final day mega auction held in Jeddah. His selection not just highlights the potential of young talent but also marks a significant moment in IPL history this time.

Son of Entire Bihar: A Proud Father

This moment has not just amazed the Indian cricket fans but also left his father, Sanjiv Suryavanshi (a farmer), in complete disbelief. Notably, Sanjiv Suryavanshi owns farmland in his native Motipur village, which is 15 km away from Smastipur town in Bihar.

Following his sons historic achievement, Sanjiv was lost for words. Woh ab sirf humra bituwa nahi, pure Bihar ka bituwa hai (He is not just my son, but the son of all of Bihar), he stated while reflecting upon his sons achievement.

Father Sells His Land to Complete His Sons Dream

Further, while sharing about his sons journey, Sanjiv said that his son has worked hard. At the age of 8, he excelled at under-16 district trials. I would take him for his cricket coaching to Smastipur and then take him back, he added while recalling the hardships.

When asked about finances, Sanjiv revealed that he sold his land in order to meet the finances for his son. Aapko kya bataye, humne toh apna zameen tak bech diya. Abhi bhi halat pura sudhra nahi, he stated.

Age Speculations

Meanwhile, the young cricketers selection was not one without challenges. Previously, there have been ongoing speculations about Vaibhavs actual age being 15. However, his father, Sanjiv, has defended his sons age.

When he was 8 and a half years old, he first appeared for the BCCI bone test. He has already played India U-19. We dont fear anyone. He can again undergo an age test, he added.

Further, Sanjiv also recalled the blessings of BCA (Bihar Cricket Association) President Rakesh Tiwari, who helped and contributed a lot in his sons journey.

Rakesh ji ka ashirwaad raha hai bahoot (Rakesh jis blessings are there), he added.

A Journey from Motipur to IPL

Hailing from Bihars small village of Motipur near Smastipur, Vaibhav made his first debut at the age of 12 years against Mumbai in the 2023-2024 Ranji Trophy Season. This earned him the title of youngest player in the tournaments history. He has been excelling in the Under-16 and Under-19 formats.

Vaibhav also played in the Vinoo Mankad Trophy in Bihar and acquired nearly 400 runs in just 5 matches. Recently, he also made headlines over the internet by becoming the youngest player to score an international century against Australia in an Under-19 match in Chennai. He made 104 off 62 balls in the match.

This remarkable talent caught the attention of Rajasthan Royals, who invited him for trials in Nagpur. During the trials, he successfully impressed the teams coach, Vikram Rathore, by hitting three sixes in a simulated match. In total, he hit eight sixes and four fours during the session.

On the second and final day of the IPL Mega Auction, Suryavanshis base price was kept at INR 30 lakh. Delhi Capitals made the opening bid. Rajasthan Royals entered the fray at INR 35 lakh. The bidding further escalated, and RR made a strong bid of INR 1.10 crore, which Delhi Capitals didnt match.

Bihar Cricket Association Applauds Selection

Rakesh Tiwari, the president of the Bihar Cricket Association, praised Vaibhav after his bid of INR 1.10 crore by RR.

Vaibhav Suryavanshis incredible achievement at such a young age fills us with immense pride, he added.

“His journey from Bihar to the IPL is a reflection of his talent, hard work, and determination. The Bihar Cricket Association has always believed in nurturing young talent, and Vaibhavs success highlights the cricketing potential in our state. We are confident he will continue to shine and inspire aspiring cricketers across Bihar and beyond. I congratulate Vaibhav and his family, the BCA president further commended.