VVS Laxman’s Faith Pays Off as Vaibhav Suryavanshi Shines in IPL

Vaibhav Suryavanshi, aged 14, dazzled in the match against Gujarat Titans held in Jaipur. Opening the batting, he completed a century in just 35 balls, hitting 7 fours and 11 sixes. This feat became the fastest century scored by an Indian player in the history of the Indian Premier League (IPL) and the second-fastest overall. Forming a 166-run partnership for the first wicket with Yashasvi Jaiswal, Vaibhav played a crucial role in helping Rajasthan Royals chase down a mammoth target of 210 runs in just 15.5 overs.

VVS Laxman, currently serving as the head of the National Cricket Academy (NCA), played a significant role in recognizing Vaibhav’s talent and bringing him into the spotlight. During Vaibhav’s Under-19 cricket days, VVS Laxman firmly believed in his potential and supported him. Vaibhav justified that belief with his extraordinary century.

Previously, based on his performances in the inter-district senior tournament in Bihar, Vaibhav was selected for the BCCI Under-19 One Day Challenger Tournament. His performances there caught the attention of VVS Laxman. Subsequently, Laxman selected him for the Under-19 Quadrangular Series against England and Bangladesh.

During one of the matches for India-B in that series, Vaibhav was run out at 36 runs and returned to the dressing room in tears. Noticing this, VVS Laxman personally approached him and encouraged him, saying, “Here, we do not just look at runs. We look at players who have the potential to succeed over a long period.” Vaibhav’s coach Manoj Ojha previously revealed this interaction. Manoj Ojha stated, “Laxman recognized his talent very quickly. The BCCI also supported him wholeheartedly.”

VVS Laxman’s role did not end there. Over the past two years, Laxman closely monitored Vaibhav’s progress at the NCA and recommended him to Rajasthan Royals head coach Rahul Dravid. Rahul Dravid also encouraged Vaibhav. Vaibhav made his IPL debut on April 19 against Lucknow Super Giants. In that match, he showcased his aggression and fearlessness by hitting the first ball he faced, bowled by Shardul Thakur, for a six. Although he was dismissed after scoring 34 runs, he was seen emotional and in tears once again. Now, with his explosive century, Vaibhav Suryavanshi not only upheld the trust placed in him but also made a significant mark in the IPL.