On Day 2 of the IPL 2025 mega auction, history was made when 13-year-old Vaibhav Suryavanshi was selected by the Rajasthan Royals for ₹1.1 crore, becoming the youngest player ever in IPL history at just 13 years and 243 days.
However, his selection has sparked controversy, with serious questions being raised about his actual age following the resurfacing of an old interview. In an interview with BNN News Benipatti on April 6, 2023, after a semi-final match in the Benipatti Premier League, Vaibhav stated he would turn 14 on September 27.
Based on this, his age at the IPL auction would be 15 years and 60 days, not 13. Additionally, Vaibhav himself confirmed September 27 as his birthday in the same interview. Adding to the confusion, several credible sources list his date of birth as March 27, leading to allegations of potential age fraud.
These discrepancies have left cricket fans and pundits questioning how such inconsistencies slipped through the verification process. Neither the IPL management nor the Rajasthan Royals have commented on the controversy.
If the allegations prove true, it could significantly affect Vaibhav’s burgeoning cricket career. Age fraud is a sensitive issue in cricket, as it undermines the fairness and integrity of the game.
Despite the controversy, Vaibhav remains part of the Rajasthan Royals, and his selection marks a historic moment for the IPL. However, the resurfaced interview has cast a shadow over his achievement, and fans are eagerly awaiting clarification from the authorities.