IPL 2025: 13-year-old Vaibhav Suryavanshi gets backing from BCA president
What's the story
Bihar Cricket Association (BCA) president Rakesh Tiwari has full faith in the capabilities of 13-year-old Vaibhav Suryavanshi.
The young cricketer is all set to make his debut in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season, which begins on March 22.
He was bought by Rajasthan Royals for ₹1.1 crore, becoming the youngest player ever to be purchased at an IPL auction held in November 2024.
Here's more.
Expectations
Tiwari has high hopes for Suryavanshi
Tiwari was all praises for Suryavanshi. "I am very excited, and I truly believe that Vaibhav will perform well," Tiwari told IANS.
He added, "People often ask me who he will become like, but I want him to achieve such great heights that others aspire to be like him."
This shows Tiwari's faith in the young cricketer's talent and future in the game.
Training
Suryavanshi's impressive practice sessions
As Rajasthan Royals prepare for their season opener against Sunrisers Hyderabad at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad, Suryavanshi has already made an impression in practice sessions.
He displayed his power-hitting prowess in the nets, further cementing Tiwari's faith in his capabilities.
The preparation comes as the team gears up to start their IPL campaign with high hopes from their youngest member.
Achievements
Suryavanshi's record-breaking journey
Suryavanshi's journey to IPL 2025 is nothing short of remarkable.
Born on March 27, 2011, in Bihar, he made his First-Class debut for Bihar in January 2024 at just 12 years and 284 days old.
Notably, during his debut, he scored a significant innings of 71 off just 42 balls against Baroda in the Vijay Hazare Trophy (2024-25).
This made him the youngest Indian to score a List A 50.
Global recognition
Suryavanshi's international success
Suryavanshi's talent isn't restricted to domestic cricket.
He hogged the limelight on the international stage by breaking the record for the fastest youth Test century by an Indian, scoring a blazing 58-ball ton against Australia in Chennai.
His contributions were instrumental in India's run to the ACC U19 Asia Cup final, where he played a pivotal role by contributing two crucial half-centuries.
Words
Coach Vikram Rathour comments on Suryavanshi's potential role
Recently, Vikram Rathour, RR's batting coach, said he is not sure if Suryavanshi will play immediately.
He said the young player's inclusion would depend on several factors such as strategy, surface conditions, and opposition.
Despite the uncertainty, Rathour praised Suryavanshi as a "very special player" with immense ability and power for his age.
Dynamics
Competition for a spot in the batting order
The RR batting unit is largely made up of players who were retained ahead of the mega auction.
Key players like Yashasvi Jaiswal, Sanju Samson, Riyan Parag, and Dhruv Jurel occupy important spots in the order.
This could make it tough for Suryavanshi to find his way into the team. He might have to warm the bench before an opportunity arrives.