Google CEO Sundar Pichai Amazed by 14-Year-Old IPL Debutant Vaibhav Suryavanshi’s Stunning Performance
In a moment that captured the imagination of cricket fans worldwide, 14-year-old Vaibhav Suryavanshi made history on Saturday evening by becoming the youngest cricketer to debut in the Indian Premier League (IPL) at just 14 years and 23 days old. Representing Rajasthan Royals (RR), the young batting prodigy from Bihar’s Samastipur district left everyone, including Google CEO Sundar Pichai, in awe with his explosive start against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium.
Suryavanshi’s debut was nothing short of cinematic. Stepping in for the injured RR captain Sanju Samson, who was sidelined with a thumb injury, the left-handed opener smashed a towering six off his very first delivery, sending the crowd into a frenzy. This incredible feat placed him in an elite group of players who have achieved the same on their IPL debut, including the likes of Andre Russell (KKR), Carlos Brathwaite (Delhi Capitals), and Sameer Rizvi (CSK).
Continuing his fearless approach, Suryavanshi scored a blazing 34 runs off just 20 balls, forming a vital 85-run opening partnership with teammate Yashasvi Jaiswal (74). His performance wasn’t just a display of raw talent but a testament to his composure under pressure, especially on such a grand stage. Google CEO Sundar Pichai, clearly captivated, took to social media platform X to express his astonishment, writing, “Woke up to watch an 8th grader play in the IPL!!!! What a debut!”
Suryavanshi is no stranger to breaking records. Before his debut, at the tender age of 13, he became the youngest player to secure an IPL contract during the IPL 2025 auction, signed by Rajasthan Royals for a staggering Rs 1.1 crore. His talent had already shone on the international stage when he represented India Under-19, smashing a remarkable 58-ball century against Australia U-19 in a four-day match earlier this year.
Despite Suryavanshi’s heroics and strong contributions from Jaiswal and Riyan Parag (39), Rajasthan Royals fell agonizingly short, losing by 2 runs to Lucknow Super Giants. LSG posted a competitive 180 for 5, thanks to half-centuries from Aiden Markram and Ayush Badoni, who stitched together a crucial 76-run partnership for the fourth wicket. In response, RR’s chase was derailed by LSG pacer Avesh Khan, who claimed 3 for 37, dismissing key batsmen like Jaiswal, Parag, and Shimron Hetmyer, restricting RR to 178 for 5.
As the dust settles on this thrilling encounter, Suryavanshi’s debut has ignited conversations about the future of Indian cricket. Hailing from a humble background in Bihar, his journey to the IPL spotlight is an inspiring tale of grit and talent. With Rajasthan Royals set to face Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) on April 24 at the iconic M Chinnaswamy Stadium, all eyes will be on this young sensation to see if he can replicate his magic. One thing is certain: Vaibhav Suryavanshi has announced his arrival on the big stage, and the cricketing world, including global icons like Sundar Pichai, is taking note.