Rajasthan Royals’ teenage prodigy Vaibhav Suryavanshi is back in the spotlight, and this time it’s for standing tall against one of the fastest bowlers in world cricket—Jofra Archer. In a recent net session video shared by the franchise, the 14-year-old was seen confidently facing Archer, who has been in sizzling form this season.
It was a striking visual: a schoolboy holding his own against an international speedster, underlining the kind of potential the Royals have spotted in him. Vaibhav Suryavanshi, already the youngest player ever to bag an IPL contract, is yet to make his debut in the tournament. But RR’s decision to test him against Archer’s raw pace in practice speaks volumes about the faith the franchise has in his ability.
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Head coach Rahul Dravid has been cautious, stating that Vaibhav will be eased into the top-flight environment without undue pressure, but moments like these show that the grooming is well underway. The video also drew praise from around the cricketing world. South African spinner Tabraiz Shamsi chimed in on social media, lauding the IPL’s role in nurturing fearless young talents.
Vaibhav vs Archer. Where else if not the IPL?! 💗 pic.twitter.com/pHtA0qpuN5
— Rajasthan Royals (@rajasthanroyals) April 12, 2025
Referring to Vaibhav’s confidence, Shamsi wrote, “A 13-year-old facing Jofra in the nets! You think he’s going to be worried if he plays for India and faces quicks at the international level? IPL has done wonders for Indian cricket, and SA20 will do the same for South Africa.”
A 13 year old facing Jofra in the nets!
You think hes gonna b worried if he plays for India and has 2 face quick bowlers in international cricket?The IPL has done wonders 4 Indian cricket but it didnt happen overnight
The @SA20_League is going 2 do the same for SA in the future https://t.co/w0F38qkbv7— Tabraiz Shamsi (@shamsi90) April 12, 2025
Meanwhile, Jofra Archer himself has found his rhythm after a slow start to IPL 2025. He went wicketless in his first two games but has since bagged five wickets in three matches, including a standout 3/25 against Punjab Kings.
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As Rajasthan Royals gear up to face Royal Challengers Bengaluru on April 13, there’s a growing buzz around whether Vaibhav could get a surprise debut. Whether or not he plays, the youngster’s composed display in the nets has already marked him as one to watch for the future.
