Vaibhav’s Father Sold Land to Support His Cricketing Dreams; Now He Shines in IPL
“I didn’t want to do anything else, just play cricket.” These words by IPL sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi of Rajasthan Royals reflect a journey full of grit, sacrifice, and unwavering determination. Hailing from Tajpur in Bihar’s Samastipur district, Vaibhav’s story is one of extraordinary hardship and triumph.
Despite severe financial constraints, Vaibhav’s father sold off his land to fund his son’s cricket coaching, equipment, and travel. Today, that decision is bearing fruit, as Vaibhav becomes the youngest fast bowler (just 14 years and 22 days) to be signed in the IPL’s prestigious Men of the Match performance roster.
In a recent match, Vaibhav bowled a deadly spell, delivering a 65-meter six and taking a key wicket with an 11-meter bounce ball—astonishing achievements for someone his age.
Honored by the Government
Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has announced a ₹10 lakh cash award for Vaibhav’s outstanding performance and for bringing national and international recognition to the state. Vaibhav is now an inspiration not only to Bihar’s youth but to aspiring cricketers across India.
Coaching Journey and Struggles
Vaibhav trained under renowned coaches in Patna, where his father supported him by doing multiple jobs and selling off his ancestral land. Vaibhav’s rigorous training schedule included 6 hours of daily fitness, fielding, and bowling drills. His exceptional physical fitness and powerful arm strength earned him a place in India’s U-19 squad.
His discipline, accuracy, and pace made him stand out, often bowling at speeds up to 140 km/h. In the last three months alone, Vaibhav has taken 22 wickets for Rajasthan Royals in training matches.
Recognition and Inspiration
Prominent coach Suresh Ranjan said,
“Vaibhav has rewritten Bihar’s cricketing history. He is not only a symbol of dedication but a representation of talent that rises above all odds.”
Former India batsman Robin Uthappa also praised Vaibhav’s aggressive style, stating that his rise in the IPL has only just begun.
Now hailed as a role model, Vaibhav Suryavanshi’s journey from a small town in Bihar to the IPL is a shining example of how dreams, when backed by sacrifices and determination, can break any barrier.
