In Jaipur, during the ongoing IPL 2025, a cricket spectacle unfolded that left spectators and seasoned commentators alike in awe. A 14-year-old named Vaibhav Suryavanshi from Bihar not only captured attention but etched his name into the record books with an astonishing innings against some of the world’s top bowlers. Ian Bishop, a veteran cricket observer, exclaimed, “It’s hard to really speak logic to this.”
Suryavanshi faced a formidable attack composed of experienced players like Rashid Khan and Mohammed Siraj, boasting a total of 694 international caps between them. Yet, he brilliantly hammered 101 runs off 38 balls, registering the second-fastest century in IPL history.
While many found this feat surprising, Vikram Rathour, Rajasthan Royals’ (RR) batting coach, wasn’t among them. Having observed Suryavanshi’s skills in the nets over recent months post his 1.1 crore auction signing, Rathour noted, “We knew what he was capable of… but to do it in front of this kind of crowd…was really special.” Rathour recalled discovering Suryavanshi’s potential during trials, emphasising, “It was up to us to nurture him.”
The match saw RR defeat Gujarat Titans by eight wickets, with 25 balls to spare. It’s an achievement not isolated to Suryavanshi but part of a broader trend Bishop remarked on: young cricketers being encouraged to play free and fearlessly, marking a cultural shift in Indian cricket.
“Most franchises allow young players to be free, be fearless, ‘don’t worry about your failure’,” Bishop shared on ESPNcricinfo’s Time Out, noting this shift compared to past cricket generations. The IPL 2025 has spotlighted several rising stars, including Priyansh Arya and Shaik Rasheed.
Acknowledging the remarkable talent, Bishop added, “I don’t care what GT served up with the ball… the kid is 14 years old! He demolished what was served to him tonight.” He urged to not overpraise, yet recognised the undeniable impact of Suryavanshi’s brilliance.
On the night, Suryavanshi struck 11 sixes and seven fours, showcasing power and skill atypical for a cricketer his age. The challenge now lies in how Suryavanshi and his opponents will tactically approach future matches. Nevertheless, his performance remains a testament to youthful talent and potential in cricket’s ever-evolving landscape.
