IPL 2025 Auction: Vaibhav Suryavanshi Father Responds to Age Fraud Allegations After Historic Rajasthan Royals Deal

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Vaibhav Suryavanshi, a 13-year-old cricket sensation from Bihar, recently became the youngest player in history to be signed during the Indian Premier League (IPL) auction. Rajasthan Royals secured him for ₹1.1 crore in a competitive bidding war, marking a proud moment for Bihar cricket.

However, the achievement was quickly shadowed by allegations of age fraud, raising questions about the young cricketer's journey. Vaibhav's father, Sanjiv Suryavanshi, addressed these accusations firmly, stating, "When he was 8 and a half years old, he first appeared for a BCCI bone test. He has already played for India U-19. We don't fear anyone. He can again undergo an age test."

Sanjiv reiterated that their focus remains on Vaibhav's talent and hard work, not baseless controversies. Vaibhav, who hails from Samastipur, Bihar, broke the record for the youngest IPL player, surpassing Afghanistan's Allah Ghazanfar.

His international acclaim also includes being the youngest batter to score a Youth Test century for India Under-19, achieving the feat at just 13 years and 288 days. The IPL auction, held in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, saw Rajasthan Royals and Delhi Capitals vie for the left-handed batter, with Rajasthan ultimately securing him.

The team's batting coach, Vikram Rathour, had previously tested Vaibhav in trials, where he impressed by smashing eight sixes and four boundaries. Despite the controversies, Sanjiv expressed immense pride in his son's achievements, calling him "the son of Bihar."

Reflecting on the family's sacrifices, he shared, "We even sold our land for his cricket journey. The situation hasn't completely improved, but my son's success makes everything worthwhile." Bihar Cricket Association (BCA) President Rakesh Tiwari also stood by Vaibhav to celebrate his accomplishments.

"Today is a very proud moment for Bihar cricket as Vaibhav Suryavanshi has made everyone here very proud. I can vouch for the fact that he will one day make India proud," said Tiwari. He also credited the Bihar government for fostering a supportive environment for budding athletes.

Currently representing India in the U19 Asia Cup in Dubai, Vaibhav is focused on his cricketing goals. "He just wants to play cricket and nothing else," Sanjiv stated, brushing aside distractions. As India gears up for its first match against Pakistan on November 30, the young cricketer's journey continues to inspire and captivate fans.