Vaibhav Suryavanshi made headlines by becoming the youngest millionaire in IPL history at just 13 years and 288 days. The Bihar-born cricket prodigy was sold to Rajasthan Royals for a staggering ₹1.1 crore at the IPL 2025 auction. However, alongside this monumental achievement, controversy surfaced, alleging that Suryavanshi might be older than his declared age. Amidst the uproar, his father, Sanjiv Suryavanshi, stood firm, stating, “We don’t fear anyone.” This article delves deep into Vaibhav’s journey, achievements, the allegations, and the larger picture of age fraud in cricket.
Who is Vaibhav Suryavanshi?
Hailing from Samastipur in Bihar, Vaibhav Suryavanshi is a young left-handed batsman who has shattered records with his extraordinary performances.
A Prodigy in the Making
Vaibhav’s cricketing journey began early. At just 8 years old, he excelled in U-16 district trials. He caught the nation’s attention during the 2023-24 Ranji Trophy season when he made his debut at 12 years and 284 days against Mumbai. This feat made him one of the youngest debutants in the tournament’s history.
Record-Breaking Achievements
Some of Vaibhav’s notable records include:
- Youngest centurion in competitive cricket at 13 years and 188 days.
- Scored 104 runs off 62 balls in the Youth Test series against Australia.
- Smashed a 58-ball century, the second-fastest in youth cricket, trailing only Moeen Ali’s 56-ball century.
Vaibhav Suryavanshi: Youngest IPL Crorepati
In the IPL 2025 auction, Vaibhav Suryavanshi achieved a monumental milestone by becoming the youngest player to bag a crore-plus contract. Rajasthan Royals, impressed by his performance during trials, secured him for ₹1.1 crore.
How Did Rajasthan Royals Discover Him?
Vaibhav’s father shared insights into the trials:
“Rajasthan Royals called him for trials in Nagpur. During a match simulation, he had to score 17 runs in an over. He hit three sixes in a row!”
Such performances exemplify his potential and explain why he was highly sought after in the auction.
The Age Fraud Allegations: What’s the Truth?
Shortly after the auction, allegations emerged suggesting Vaibhav might be 15 years old instead of his declared age of 13 years and 288 days.
BCCI Bone Test: A Decisive Factor
Vaibhav underwent a BCCI-mandated bone test at 8.5 years to verify his age. His father reiterated their transparency:
“He has already played India U-19. We don’t fear anyone. He can undergo age testing again.”
Bone tests, while not infallible, are a standard method used to determine a player’s age in cricket.
Father’s Defiant Stand: ‘We Don’t Fear Anyone’
Sanjiv Suryavanshi has been unwavering in his support for his son amidst the controversy. He emphasized the hard work and sacrifices made over the years:
“At the age of 8, he excelled at U-16 district trials. I would take him to Samastipur for coaching and then bring him back home.”
His confidence reflects a belief in their integrity and Vaibhav’s rightful place in cricket.
Age Fraud in Cricket: A Growing Concern
Age manipulation is not new in cricket, particularly at youth levels. Players often falsify their age to gain eligibility for junior tournaments.
Notable Cases of Age Fraud
- Manjot Kalra, India U-19 star, faced similar allegations during his career.
- An Assam cricketer was banned in 2021 after it was discovered he was several years older than declared.
The Impact on Vaibhav Suryavanshi’s Career
While the allegations are serious, Vaibhav’s track record speaks for itself. His performances on the field have consistently proven his worth.
Youngest IPL Crorepati Vaibhav Suryavanshi Accused of Age Fraud, Father Says: ‘We Don’t Fear Anyone’
This controversy may cast a shadow over Vaibhav’s career for now, but it doesn’t diminish his achievements. The cricketing world awaits further developments with bated breath.
FAQs
1. Who is Vaibhav Suryavanshi?
Vaibhav Suryavanshi is a 13-year-old cricket prodigy from Bihar who made history by becoming the youngest IPL millionaire.
2. What are the age fraud allegations against Vaibhav Suryavanshi?
It is alleged that Vaibhav is 15 years old instead of his declared age of 13 years and 288 days.
3. How did Vaibhav perform in IPL trials?
Vaibhav impressed Rajasthan Royals by hitting multiple sixes in a match simulation.
4. What records has Vaibhav Suryavanshi set?
He is the youngest centurion in competitive cricket and holds the second-fastest youth century record.
5. What is the stance of Vaibhav’s father?
Vaibhav’s father denies the allegations, stating that he has undergone age verification tests and is willing to do so again.
6. Has age fraud been common in cricket?
Yes, several players, especially in junior cricket, have faced allegations of age fraud over the years.
Conclusion
Vaibhav Suryavanshi’s journey from Samastipur to the IPL has been nothing short of inspiring. While the age fraud allegations pose a challenge, they cannot erase his record-breaking achievements and immense potential. As cricket fans, let’s celebrate his talent while awaiting clarity on the controversy.
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