During the second and final day of the IPL’s Youngest Buy Vaibhav Suryavanshi, 13, Under Fire: Age Fraud Allegations and Father’s Defense auction in Jeddah, Vaibhav, at 13 years and eight months, became the youngest cricketer ever to be picked by a franchise as Rajasthan Royals bought him for Rs 1.10 crore
A Father’s Sacrifice: Turning Dreams into Reality
Sanjiv Suryavanshi, a farmer from Motipur village in Bihar, made a life-changing decision three years ago when he sold his farmland to support his 10-year-old son Vaibhav’s cricketing aspirations. His faith and sacrifice bore fruit in an extraordinary way as Vaibhav, now 13 years and eight months, made history during the IPL mega auction held in Jeddah. Rajasthan Royals picked the prodigy for an impressive Rs 1.10 crore, making him the youngest cricketer ever to be signed by an IPL franchise.
From Village Grounds to Global Stardom
Vaibhav’s journey from a small village near Samastipur to representing Bihar on the international stage is a story of passion and perseverance. Currently in Dubai for the U-19 Asia Cup, the young talent has not only fulfilled his father’s dream but has also become a symbol of hope for the entire state. Reflecting on his son’s achievement, Sanjiv said with pride, “Woh ab sirf humra bituwa nahi, pura Bihar ka bituwa hai” (He is not just my son now but the son of all of Bihar).
My son has worked incredibly hard. At just eight years old, he excelled in the U-16 district trials, Sanjiv Suryavanshi reminisced about the challenges they faced. “I would take him to Samastipur for cricket coaching and bring him back, juggling everything to support his passion.”
When asked about the financial strain of pursuing cricket, Sanjiv revealed the sacrifices he made. “It’s not just an investment—it’s a massive one. What can I say? I even sold my land for his career, and we’re still not entirely stable financially.”
Addressing rumors about Vaibhav’s age, often questioned as 15 instead of 13, Sanjiv was firm in his response. “When he was eight and a half, he underwent a BCCI bone test. He’s already played for India U-19. We have no fear; he’s ready to undergo an age test again,” he stated confidently.
Sanjiv also acknowledged the consistent support of Bihar Cricket Association (BCA) president Rakesh Tiwary. “Rakesh ji’s blessings have been immense throughout Vaibhav’s journey.”
Vaibhav’s IPL auction story is one for the books. Starting with a base price of ₹30 lakh, Delhi Capitals opened the bidding, followed by Rajasthan Royals, who won him for ₹1.10 crore. “Rajasthan Royals had called him for trials in Nagpur. Vikram Rathour sir gave him a match scenario where he had to score 17 runs in an over. Bituwa (Vaibhav) hit three sixes to seal the deal. In the trials overall, he smashed eight sixes and four boundaries,” his father shared proudly.
For a 13-year-old, handling newfound fame and wealth can be overwhelming. Sanjiv, however, is focused on shielding his son from monetary distractions. “He’s only interested in playing cricket. A few years ago, he loved Doraemon; now, cricket is his only love,” he laughed.
IPL: BCA Lauds Vaibhav’s Selection
BCA president Rakesh Tiwary expressed pride in Vaibhav’s achievement. “Vaibhav Suryavanshi’s incredible success at such a young age fills us with immense pride. His journey from Bihar to the IPL is a testament to his talent, hard work, and determination. The Bihar Cricket Association is committed to nurturing young talent, and Vaibhav’s story highlights the cricketing potential in our state,” Tiwary said in a statement.
