Vaibhav Suryavanshi Shines in IPL Debut, Silences Critics at Just 14

Sports News: 14-year-old Vaibhav Suryavanshi has created a buzz in the cricketing world after making a remarkable debut in IPL 2025. The young prodigy, who first made headlines when Rajasthan Royals acquired him for ₹1.10 crore in the IPL 2025 mega auction at just 13 years old, proved his worth in his debut match. Facing the Lucknow Super Giants, Vaibhav played a fearless innings, scoring a brisk 34 runs, showing both maturity and skill beyond his years.

Backlash from Junaid Khan and the Fitting Response

Following the IPL auction, former Pakistani fast bowler Junaid Khan had publicly questioned Vaibhav's abilities, even mocking his age. He cast doubts on whether a 13-year-old could genuinely clear boundaries with sixes in a high-stakes tournament like the IPL. However, Vaibhav let his bat do the talking. In his very first IPL appearance, he opened his account with a towering six, a clear statement to those who doubted him. His performance not only silenced critics but also inspired admiration across the cricketing community.

Coach Manish Ojha Slams Pakistani Criticism

Vaibhav's coach, Manish Ojha, also came forward to address the controversy. In an interview with TV9, Ojha dismissed the remarks made by Junaid Khan, stating that people in Pakistan have too much idle time to indulge in baseless criticism. He clarified that all medical and age verification procedures were conducted and approved by the BCCI before Vaibhav was allowed to participate in the league. "Everything is out in the open. The BCCI has done its due diligence. So, what Junaid Khan thinks doesn’t really matter," said Ojha.

"IPL is the Greatest League, Pakistanis Only Wish to Be Part of It"

Ojha didn't hold back in expressing his pride for Vaibhav. He emphasized that there is no cricket league in the world as prestigious as the IPL. "Our boy is playing in the IPL, and that itself is a great achievement," he stated. He also pointed out that many Pakistani players dream of participating in the IPL, but internal issues and politics within Pakistan cricket continue to hinder their talent from reaching global platforms. According to Ojha, Pakistan is full of potential, but without proper structure and management, that talent remains hidden. In contrast, India’s system allows young talents like Vaibhav to shine on the biggest stages of world cricket.