Credited from: SCMP
In a remarkable display of cricket, 14-year-old Vaibhav Suryavanshi became the youngest player to score a century in men's T20 cricket, achieving this milestone during an Indian Premier League match against Gujarat Titans. Suryavanshi scored an astonishing 101 runs off just 38 balls, leading the Rajasthan Royals to an eight-wicket victory and marking a significant event in his burgeoning career, according to BBC.
Suryavanshi's century came as he punished the Gujarat bowling attack, hitting 11 sixes and 7 fours, showcasing extraordinary talent and power-hitting skills. He reached his 100 in merely 35 balls, making it the second-fastest century in IPL history, just shy of Chris Gayle's record. His impressive performance helped the Royals chase down a target of 210 runs in just 15.5 overs, according to Channel News Asia and Reuters.
After securing the player of the match title, Suryavanshi expressed his joy, stating, "It is like a dream to score a century in the IPL." His achievement not only broke multiple records but also set a new benchmark for young cricketers, as he became the youngest player to earn a contract in the IPL at the age of 13, according to South China Morning Post and Newsweek.
Suryavanshi's historical innings not only ended a five-match losing streak for Rajasthan Royals but also demonstrated his capacity to compete at high levels against seasoned bowlers. His previous records include scores of 176 runs in the Under-19 Asia Cup and a triple century in local tournaments, marking him as a significant talent for the future of cricket in India, according to Al Jazeera and Channel News Asia.