RR’s 14-Year-Old Vaibhav Suryavanshi Smashes Fastest First IPL Century in Just 35 Balls

The Indian Premier League (IPL) is renowned for unearthing prodigious talent, but on April 28, 2025, cricket fans witnessed a phenomenon never seen before. Rajasthan Royals’ 14-year-old sensation, Vaibhav Suryavanshi, not only became the youngest player to score a T20 century but did so in breathtaking style-reaching his maiden IPL hundred in just 35 balls. The world watched in awe as this schoolboy from Bihar rewrote the record books, announced himself on the global stage, and inspired millions of young cricketers.

Setting the Stage: RR’s Do-or-Die Clash Against Gujarat Titans

Rajasthan Royals entered their home game at Jaipur’s Sawai Mansingh Stadium under immense pressure, having lost five consecutive matches. Their playoff hopes were hanging by a thread. Chasing a mammoth 210 against the Gujarat Titans-boasting a world-class bowling attack-the Royals needed something extraordinary.

The team’s bold decision to open with Vaibhav Suryavanshi, still in his early teens and playing just his third IPL match, raised eyebrows. But what followed was nothing short of a cricketing fairytale.

The Record-Breaking Innings: Ball-by-Ball Brilliance

Explosive Start

Facing Mohammed Siraj with the new ball, Suryavanshi signaled his intent immediately, dispatching the very first delivery he faced for a towering six. The crowd erupted, sensing something special was on the cards.

Boundary Blitz

Suryavanshi’s innings was a masterclass in clean hitting and fearless intent:

Reaching 50 in 17 balls: He raced to his half-century with a flurry of boundaries, including three consecutive sixes off Ishant Sharma in the 5th over.
Attacking the Best: He took on Rashid Khan, one of the world’s premier T20 bowlers, smashing him for two sixes and a four in a single over.
No Respect for Reputation: Whether facing pace or spin, Suryavanshi’s footwork, timing, and shot selection were impeccable. He attempted boundaries on 26 of the 37 balls he faced, connecting cleanly with 15.

The Historic Hundred

He reached his century with a majestic six over long-on, again off Rashid Khan. The stadium rose as one, acknowledging not just a record, but the birth of a new cricketing superstar.

Statistical Highlights

101 runs off 38 balls (SR: 265.79)
11 sixes and 7 fours (94 runs in boundaries)
Second-fastest IPL century (35 balls, only behind Chris Gayle’s 30-ball record)
Youngest T20 centurion ever (14 years, 7 months)
Fastest IPL century by an Indian (breaking Yusuf Pathan’s 37-ball record)

Partnership and Team Impact

Suryavanshi’s 166-run opening partnership with Yashasvi Jaiswal (70* off 41) laid the foundation for a record chase. The Royals overhauled the 210-run target in just 15.5 overs, snapping their losing streak and reigniting their playoff campaign.

The innings not only lifted the team’s spirits but also electrified the Jaipur crowd, with fans chanting Suryavanshi’s name long after the winning runs were scored.

Technical Analysis: What Makes Suryavanshi Special?

1. Fearless Mindset:
Despite his age, Suryavanshi showed no nerves. He played each ball on merit, never getting bogged down by the occasion or the opposition.

2. Range of Shots:
His wagon wheel showed strokes all around the ground-lofted drives, pulls, cuts, and even deft late cuts, suggesting a mature understanding of T20 batting.

3. Power and Timing:
He generated immense power with minimal effort, often clearing the boundary with ease. His timing, especially against the spinners, was reminiscent of seasoned IPL stars.

4. Adaptability:
He rotated the strike smartly and targeted bowlers selectively, showing tactical awareness beyond his years.

Personal Journey: From Bihar’s Fields to IPL Stardom

Vaibhav Suryavanshi’s rise is nothing short of meteoric:

Early Days: Born in Samastipur, Bihar, he started playing cricket at age 5. His prodigious talent was spotted early by local coaches.
Domestic Records: At just 12, he debuted in the Ranji Trophy, becoming the youngest to do so. He later scored a 58-ball century for India U-19 against Australia.
IPL Breakthrough: Rajasthan Royals signed him for ₹1.10 crore at 13, making headlines as the youngest-ever IPL contractee. He made his IPL debut with a six off his first ball, hinting at his fearless approach.

His father, Sanjiv Suryavanshi, and his coaches have been pillars of support, guiding him through the pressures of early fame.

Reactions: Cricket World in Awe

Teammates:
Yashasvi Jaiswal, his opening partner, called it “the best T20 innings I’ve ever witnessed.” Captain Sanju Samson praised Suryavanshi’s calmness and maturity.

Opposition:
GT’s Rashid Khan, despite being on the receiving end, applauded the youngster’s composure and skill.

Legends and Experts:
Yusuf Pathan, whose record was broken, tweeted:

“Records are meant to be broken, but to see a 14-year-old do it is something else. Welcome to the big stage, Vaibhav!”

Fans and Social Media:
Social media exploded with tributes, memes, and congratulatory messages. “Suryavanshi Era Begins” trended nationwide.

Broader Significance: What This Means for Indian Cricket

Inspiration for Youngsters: Suryavanshi’s feat will inspire thousands of kids in small towns and villages to dream big, knowing age is no barrier.
Validation of IPL’s Talent Hunt: The Royals’ faith in youth and the IPL’s scouting system have been vindicated.
Pressure and Responsibility: With fame comes scrutiny. The Royals and BCCI will need to ensure Suryavanshi’s growth is managed carefully, balancing cricket and education.

Quotes: In His Own Words

After the match, Suryavanshi said:

“I just wanted to play my natural game and support my team. I dedicate this century to my parents and coaches. I’m grateful for the trust shown in me.”

His father, Sanjiv, added:

“We always believed in Vaibhav’s talent, but this is beyond our dreams. Thank you to the Royals for nurturing him.”

Conclusion: The Dawn of a New Era

Vaibhav Suryavanshi’s 35-ball century is not just a record; it’s a statement that the future of Indian cricket is in safe hands. His blend of power, poise, and humility has captured the imagination of the cricketing world. As the IPL continues to be a launchpad for young talent, Suryavanshi’s story will be told for generations-a reminder that age is just a number, and greatness can arrive when you least expect it.

Key Takeaways: