Can We Cultivate More Talents Like Vaibhav Suryavanshi?

New Delhi, May 30 (NationPress) The president of the Bihar Cricket Association (BCA), Rakesh Tiwari, stated that the remarkable achievement of Vaibhav Suryavanshi in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 highlights the abundant cricketing potential in Bihar that is yet to be unearthed and nurtured.

At just 14 years old, Vaibhav has etched his name in history as the youngest player to score a century in the IPL. Playing for the Rajasthan Royals, the young batter from Patna achieved a stunning 35-ball century against the Gujarat Titans, setting a record for the fastest IPL century by an Indian, surpassing the mark previously set by Yusuf Pathan.

“We identified Vaibhav’s remarkable talent early on, and our goal is to nurture him into the best player he can be. I express my gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his supportive words today. We are also making strides in discovering skilled bowlers, having launched a ‘Search for Bowlers’ initiative in Bihar. I believe that just as Vaibhav has shone, many more exceptional talents will surface from this initiative,” he remarked.

Tiwari also emphasized the recent surge in domestic cricket activities within the state. “Numerous domestic tournaments have been held in Bihar lately, allowing us to unearth several gifted young players. Now, these athletes will have the chance to display their talents and elevate their game,” he noted.

“Vaibhav’s achievement is not only a personal milestone but also a testament to the fact that Bihar cricket is rich in talent. What we require are the appropriate platforms, opportunities, and constructive guidance,” Tiwari added.

Due to his consistency, Suryavanshi has secured a spot in the Indian U19 squad for the upcoming tour to England, set to occur from June 24 to July 23. This tour will feature a warm-up match, five Youth ODIs, and two Youth Tests against England U19.

The Prime Minister also recognized Suryavanshi's rapid ascent, stating on X, “At Patna airport, I met the young cricket prodigy Vaibhav Suryavanshi and his family. His cricketing prowess is being celebrated nationwide! I wish him the best in his future pursuits.”

Before his IPL stardom, Vaibhav had already made waves in domestic cricket, debuting for Bihar in January 2024 at the age of just 12 years and 284 days, scoring 71 off 42 balls in the Vijay Hazare Trophy against Baroda, thus becoming the youngest Indian to score a List-A fifty.

He also made international headlines with the fastest youth Test century by an Indian—a 58-ball ton against Australia U19 in Chennai. During the U19 Asia Cup, he played a pivotal role, contributing two key half-centuries in India’s journey to the finals.