In a groundbreaking moment for cricket, 14-year-old Vaibhav Suryavanshi has etched his name in history as the youngest player ever to score a century in men’s T20 cricket. This remarkable feat took place during the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) season in a match held in Jaipur, where Suryavanshi showcased his extraordinary talent while playing for the Rajasthan Royals. His performance was nothing short of spectacular, as he scored 101 runs off just 38 balls, contributing significantly to his team’s victory against the Gujarat Titans.
The match at Sawai Mansingh Stadium saw the Gujarat Titans set a formidable target of 209 runs, with notable contributions from Shubman Gill, who scored 84 runs off 50 balls, and Jos Buttler, who contributed an unbeaten 50 off just 26 deliveries. However, it was the Rajasthan Royals who ultimately triumphed, reaching 212 runs for the loss of just two wickets and sealing the win by eight wickets. Suryavanshi’s breathtaking innings included seven fours and 11 sixes, marking the second-fastest century in IPL history and the fastest by an Indian player. The young left-hander hit a six off Rashid Khan to reach his hundred in the 11th over, showcasing his aggressive batting style and making a statement in the league.
Vaibhav Suryavanshi was signed as the youngest player in IPL history during last year’s auction, where his remarkable potential drew significant interest and a final bid of £103,789 or 1.1 crore rupees. Just a month before this historic hundred, he had turned 14 years old, and he made headlines previously when he made his first appearance in the IPL earlier this April, marking another milestone in his young career. Notably, he even made an impactful debut by hitting a six on his very first ball.
In this particular match, Suryavanshi formed a formidable partnership with fellow batter Yashasvi Jaiswal, contributing to a staggering 166-run association. Jaiswal himself finished on 70 not out from 40 balls, proving to be a reliable partner in crime as they cruised towards the target with ease. Suryavanshi’s innings not only lifted the spirits of the Rajasthan Royals but also reignited their hopes for progression in the tournament after suffering five consecutive losses prior to this match.
The Gujarat Titans, on the other hand, found themselves in a precarious position post-defeat, dropping to third place in the IPL standings based on net run-rate. Despite their best efforts, including Gill’s commendable innings, the Titans were unable to defend their total against a young star and a motivated Royals team.
Suryavanshi has garnered significant attention not only for his age but also for his previous performances. He had already established himself as a promising talent, scoring a 58-ball century for the India Under-19 side against Australia last October and maintaining a solid presence in the domestic circuit with Bihar’s first-class team. His journey reflects a blend of raw talent and determination, traits that have been evident since he made his debut at the tender age of 12 in under-19 cricket.
As the IPL unfolds, Suryavanshi’s ascent is being closely monitored by cricket enthusiasts and analysts alike, making him a name to watch in the coming years. His achievements, particularly at such a young age, raise the bar for aspiring cricketers and add a new chapter to the story of youth in sports. Whether this young prodigy can maintain this form will be intriguing to see, but for now, he stands as a shining example of the promise and potential that lies in the future of cricket.