Rajasthan Royals were down and out in IPL 2025, having suffered five consecutive losses, including three unsuccessful run chases. So when they were asked to chase a daunting 210 against in-form Gujarat Titans, few expected them to succeed. But 14-year-old Vaibhav Suryavanshi, who earned the sobriquet ‘Boss Baby,’ had other plans.
In just weeks of his 14th birthday, the teenage sensation shocked the world of cricket with a scorching 35-ball century – the second quickest in IPL history, behind only Chris Gayle’s mythical 30-ball century in 2013. His innings, comprising 11 huge sixes and 7 fours, was against a fearsome attack that included Mohammed Siraj, Ishant Sharma, Prasidh Krishna, and Rashid Khan.
Beginning with a stylish straight six off Siraj and culminating in a 30-run over off Karim Janat, Suryavanshi provided a masterclass in brazen power-hitting. The innings was not merely record-breaking but era-defining, particularly for someone who hasn’t even played an Under-19 World Cup yet.
RR’s ₹1.1 crore investment in the IPL auction sparked eyebrows, particularly for such a young player. Glimpses of his ability were seen in a 62-ball 104 in an Under-19 ‘Test’ against Australia and two slashing Asia Cup knocks. In spite of rumors that he was older than he claimed, his father remained steadfast against them.
The IPL is a giant step up from junior cricket, but Suryavanshi has adapted to it like a veteran. He hit his first IPL ball for six, then followed it up with a gritty cameo against LSG, and now this unforgettable century.
Most of his sixes came in a sweep between midwicket and fine leg, capitalizing on anything short. His batting partner Yashasvi Jaiswal, who also starred with an unbeaten 70, praised the youngster’s temperament and work ethic.
With stars like Shubman Gill and Jaiswal competing for India’s opener spots, Suryavanshi’s rise seems improbable — yet inevitable. On this electric Monday night, he was untouchable, unafraid, and unstoppable.
This was my first IPL century, just my third innings,” he said matter-of-factly after the match. “It’s like a dream. But it’s also the result of months of hard work.
