If there was one name that stole the spotlight in Match 36 of IPL 2025 between Rajasthan Royals and Lucknow Super Giants, it was Vaibhav Suryavanshi. At just 14 years and 23 days old, Suryavanshi scripted history by becoming the youngest-ever player to debut in the IPL. And it wasn’t just the milestone that turned heads—it was how he announced his arrival.

With regular skipper Sanju Samson sidelined due to injury, the young sensation was promoted to open the innings alongside Yashasvi Jaiswal, and he made an unforgettable start by smashing a six off his very first ball.

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The audacity and skill shown by the teen prodigy left fans stunned and even caught the attention of Google CEO Sundar Pichai, who took to social media to acknowledge the remarkable debut, calling it “unreal” for someone so young to perform at that level.

Woke up to watch an 8th grader play in the IPL!!!! What a debut! https://t.co/KMR7TfnVmL

— Sundar Pichai (@sundarpichai) April 19, 2025

Suryavanshi didn’t stop at one big hit. He went on to build a solid 85-run opening stand with Jaiswal, anchoring the early part of Rajasthan’s chase. His knock of 34 off 20 balls, which included three sixes and two boundaries, provided the Royals with early momentum before he was dismissed by Aiden Markram in the ninth over.

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However, the Royals faltered after his departure, struggling under pressure during the latter half of the chase. It all came down to the wire, but it was Avesh Khan’s cool-headed death bowling that sealed the deal for Lucknow. He finished with 3/37, including a superb final over that restricted the Royals just short of the target. For his efforts, Avesh was named Player of the Match.

“I just kept thinking about what the team needed,” Avesh said after the game. “It’s a long tournament—I just want to keep delivering for the team.”