14-year-old Vaibhav Suryavanshi makes history in IPL debut

In India, on April 20, 2025, a significant milestone was achieved in cricket history when Vaibhav Suryavanshi debuted for the Rajasthan Royals in the Indian Premier League (IPL) at the age of just 14 years and 23 days. He became the youngest player to ever participate in this high-profile cricket league, showcasing immense talent and skill. During his debut match against the Lucknow Super Giants at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium, Suryavanshi scored a remarkable 34 runs off 20 balls, contributing to an impressive opening partnership of 85 runs with teammate Yashasvi Jaiswal before being stumped by wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant. Despite his efforts, the Rajasthan Royals faced a narrow defeat, losing the match by just two runs, which showcased the competitive nature of the tournament. His performance not only gained him recognition as a promising young athlete but also drew the attention of notable figures in the tech industry, including Sundar Pichai, who congratulated him on social media. This debut came after Suryavanshi had already made headlines when he was sold for $1.1 million at the IPL auction, highlighting the high expectations placed on him and the excitement surrounding his entry into professional cricket. Notably, Suryavanshi's presence in the league is particularly historic as he is the first IPL player born after the league's inception in 2008, marking a generational shift in the sport. His debut and performance are seen as a landmark moment for future young athletes in India, inspiring many aspiring cricketers to follow in his footsteps and pursue their dreams. The Rajasthan Royals' decision to field Suryavanshi was met with praise by the team's coaching staff, who believed in his ability to perform under pressure.