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At just 14 years of age, Vaibhav Suryavanshi has taken the cricketing world by storm with his historic entry into the Indian Premier League (IPL). Bought by Rajasthan Royals for INR 1.1 crore at the IPL 2025 mega auction in Dubai, he became the youngest player ever auctioned in the tournament’s history. His explosive performances, including a six off the very first ball he faced and a blistering century in his third match, captured nationwide attention. However, his meteoric rise has now been clouded by a controversy questioning the authenticity of his stated age.
Age-fraud accusations surface against Vaibhav Suryavanshi
However, amid the celebration of his rise, a cloud of controversy emerged shortly after his century-making knock. A video that went viral across social media platforms featured a man from Vaibhav’s locality who alleged that the cricketer is not 14 years old, but 16. The man, claiming to be familiar with Vaibhav’s family, spoke at length about how Vaibhav’s father had fought hard to support his son’s cricket dreams, including arranging resources and opportunities from a very young age. He also added that Vaibhav had a history of announcing his arrival in tournaments by hitting sixes on the first ball, a habit that reportedly began long before his IPL debut. While the comments in the video were partly admiring, the core claim about age misrepresentation sparked heated debate online.
Age fraud has long been a persistent issue in Indian cricket, particularly in under-14 and under-16 tournaments where age can drastically affect performance dynamics. While no official documentation has surfaced to support the allegations against Vaibhav, and no inquiry has been initiated by the IPL or the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) so far, the mere suggestion of age manipulation has cast an unnecessary shadow over what should have been a purely celebratory moment in the young cricketer’s career.
Here’s the video:
Vaibhav Suryavanshi's real well-wishers owned idolo slowly😭
-He used to start with six every tournament
-His father did a lot of hardships we can't even imagine
-He is actually 16 years— Honest Kohli Fan™💚❤️ (@KingEra_18)
Also READ: 14-year-old Vaibhav Suryavanshi stuns F1 ace Oscar Piastri with his cricket prowess in the IPL 2025
Suryavanshi redefines IPL T20
Vaibhav’s journey began spectacularly as he donned the Rajasthan jersey, not just as a young player with potential, but as a generational talent making history. In his debut match against the Lucknow Super Giants, the teenager sent shockwaves through the cricketing fraternity by smashing a six off the very first delivery he faced, an act of audacity rarely seen from someone so young. While many believed it was a one-off spark, he silenced all doubts with a jaw-dropping 35-ball century against Gujarat Titans in only his third appearance, instantly becoming one of the youngest centurions in T20 history. His innings was not only filled with flair but also reflected rare composure, strategic shot placement, and unshakable confidence that even seasoned professionals struggle to summon on such a grand stage.
While his numbers are incredible, it’s his attitude that truly stands out unafraid of reputations, and unburdened by expectations. In a league known for consuming young talent as quickly as it creates it, Vaibhav has so far showcased the mental fortitude to survive and thrive. Whether he’s facing international stars or defending a total under lights, he exudes a calmness that defies his age, making him one of the most exciting talents to emerge from IPL 2025.
