Thirteen-year-old Vaibhav Suryavanshi made headlines by becoming the youngest player ever sold in IPL history, acquired by Rajasthan Royals for ₹1.10 crore. His father, Sanjiv Suryavanshi, reflects on their incredible journey from humble beginnings in Bihar.
Vaibhav Suryavanshi: The Pride of Bihar
When Sanjiv Suryavanshi sold his farmland to support his son Vaibhav’s cricketing dreams, he never imagined it would lead to history. At just 13 years and eight months, Vaibhav became the youngest cricketer ever to be picked in the IPL auction, as Rajasthan Royals secured him for Rs 1.10 crore in Jeddah. For Sanjiv, it was a moment of pride and vindication for the years of hardship and sacrifices.
“He is not just my son now but the pride of Bihar,” Sanjiv said, speaking from his village in Motipur, Bihar. His voice carried a mix of pride and emotion, as his son was away in Dubai, representing India in the U-19 Asia Cup.
Vaibhav Suryavanshi’s Struggles
Sanjiv recounted the early days of struggle when Vaibhav’s talent became evident. “At the age of 8, he excelled in U-16 district trials,” Sanjiv recalled. “I used to take him for coaching to Samastipur and bring him back every single day. Those were tough times.”
But cricket is an expensive sport, and the family’s finances were stretched to the limit. “Not just an investment—it’s a big investment,” Sanjiv admitted. “I even sold my farmland to ensure Vaibhav got everything he needed. Even now, our financial situation isn’t fully stable.”
Responding to Age Controversies
Vaibhav’s rapid rise hasn’t been without controversy. Questions have been raised about his age, with some claiming he is older than 13. Sanjiv was quick to shut down the allegations. “When he was 8 and a half years old, he passed the BCCI’s bone test. He has played for India U-19 already. We are not afraid of anyone. He can undergo another age test if needed,” Sanjiv declared.
Sanjiv also credited Bihar Cricket Association President Rakesh Tiwary for playing a significant role in Vaibhav’s journey. “Rakesh ji’s blessings have always been with Vaibhav,” he added.
The Moment That Changed Everything
Vaibhav’s selection in the IPL auction was no fluke. Rajasthan Royals’ batting coach Vikram Rathour noticed the boy’s extraordinary talent during trials in Nagpur. Sanjiv shared the pivotal moment. “They gave him a situation where he needed 17 runs in an over. My son hit three sixes to finish it. During the trials, he smashed eight sixes and four fours. That’s what caught their attention.”
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With a base price of Rs 30 lakh, Vaibhav sparked a bidding war between Delhi Capitals and Rajasthan Royals. Sanjiv watched as Rajasthan Royals eventually won the bid at Rs 1.10 crore.
Keeping Focus Amid Stardom
For a 13-year-old, sudden fame and wealth can be overwhelming. But Sanjiv is determined to keep his son grounded. “He just wants to play cricket and nothing else,” Sanjiv said. “A few years back, he loved Doremon cartoons, but now it’s all about cricket.”
As the 13-year-old prepares to don the Rajasthan Royals jersey in IPL 2025, his father’s words echo the pride of an entire state: “He is not just my son anymore. He belongs to Bihar.”
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