Vaibhav Suryavanshi's journey from Bihar to IPL: Started playing at 8 years, father sold land

Thirteen-year-old Vaibhav Suryavanshi has become the youngest cricketer to be drafted into the Indian Premier League (IPL). Rajasthan Royals secured him for Rs 1.10 crore during the second day of the IPL mega auction. Suryavanshi, who hails from Motipur village near Samastipur town in Bihar, is currently in Dubai for the U-19 Asia Cup.

His father, Sanjiv Suryavanshi, sold his farmland to support his son's cricketing dreams. “Woh ab sirf humra bituwa nahi pura Bihar ka bituwa hai (He is not just my son now but entire Bihar's son),” Sanjiv told PTI. He described the financial struggles: “Not just investment, it's big investment. Aapko kya bataye humne toh apna zameen tak bech diya. Abhi bhi halat pura sudhra nahi (I have sold my land. Financial issues are still there).”

Sanjiv detailed his son's early talent and training: “My son has worked hard. At the age of 8 years, he excelled at U-16 district trials. I would take him for his cricket coaching to Samastipur and then take him back.” He also addressed concerns about Vaibhav's age: “When he was 8 and half years old he first appeared for BCCI bone test. He has already played India U-19. We don't fear anyone. He can again undergo age test.”


The bidding began with Delhi Capitals at his base price of Rs 30 lakh, but Rajasthan Royals ultimately won with their Rs 1.10 crore bid. Sanjiv recounted his son's impressive trial performance with Rajasthan Royals: “Rajasthan Royals had called him for trials in Nagpur. Vikram Rathour sir (batting coach) gave a match situation where he had to score 17 in an over. Bituwa ne 3 chakka mara. Trials mein aat chakka aur char chauwaa mara (He smashed three sixes. At trials, he hit eight sixes and four fours).”

When asked how he would shield his son from the pressure of his new wealth, Sanjiv simply stated, “He just wants to play cricket and nothing else. A few years back he loved Doremon, not anymore.”

Bihar Cricket Association (BCA) president Rakesh Tiwary praised Suryavanshi’s selection: “Vaibhav Suryavanshi's incredible achievement at such a young age fills us with immense pride. His journey from Bihar to the IPL is a reflection of his talent, hard work, and determination. The Bihar Cricket Association has always believed in nurturing young talent, and Vaibhav's success highlights the cricketing potential in our state. We are confident he will continue to shine and inspire aspiring cricketers across Bihar and beyond. I congratulate Vaibhav and his family.”