New Delhi: when Sanjeev Suryavanshi He sold his agricultural land to fulfill his 10-year-old son Vaibhav’s cricketing aspirations, little did he know that within three years the boy would create history. During the second and final day of the IPL mega auction in Jeddah, Vaibhav, at the age of 13 years and eight months, became the youngest cricketer to be selected by a franchise. Rajasthan Royals Bought him for Rs 1.10 crore.
Sanjeev, who owned agricultural land in his native village Motipur, located 15 km from Samastipur town in Bihar, was lost for words.
Sanjeev told PTI over phone, “He is now not just our bituwa but the son of entire Bihar.” His son is currently in Dubai for the Under-19 Asia Cup.
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Recalling the days of hardship, he said, “My son has worked hard. At the age of 8, he excelled in the Under-16 district trials. I would take him to Samastipur for cricket coaching and then back “
So was his financial condition fine since cricket is an investment?
“Not just investment, this is a big investment. Aapke kya bata humne to apni zameen tak bech diya. Abhi bhi condition poori nahi hui (I have sold my land. Financial issues are still there).”
When asked about the controversies surrounding Vaibhav’s real age, which many believe to be 15 years old, the father was quick to clarify.
“He had undergone the BCCI age test for the first time when he was eight-and-a-half years old. He has already played India Under-19. We are not afraid of anyone. He can undergo the age test again,” he said.
Sanjeev said this Bihar Cricket Association Chairman Rakesh Tiwari’s “blessings” have always helped Vaibhav in his journey.
“Rakesh ji has blessed me a lot.”
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His base price in the auction was Rs 2.5 lakh. 30 lakhs and Delhi Capitals made the initial bid. RR entered the field at Rs. 35 lakh and ultimately outperformed DC in signing the player.
So how did this bidding war happen?
“Rajasthan Royals had called him for trials in Nagpur. Vikram Rathod sir (batting coach) gave a match situation where he had to score 17 runs in an over. Bituwa hit 3 sixes. He hit eight sixes and four sixes in the trial. (He scored three sixes in the trial, he hit eight sixes and four fours),” the father claimed proudly.
It may be very difficult for a 13 year old child to understand what earning a crore means. So how does he plan to keep his younger son away from monetary discussions?
Sanjeev said, “He just wants to play cricket and nothing else. A few years ago he used to love the doorman, not now.”
BCA appreciated the selection
After bidding Rs 1.10 crore for RR, BCA President Tiwari praised this talented player.
,Vaibhav SuryavanshiThis incredible achievement at such a young age fills us with immense pride,” Tiwari said in a statement.
“His journey from Bihar to the IPL is a reflection of his talent, hard work and determination. Bihar Cricket Association has always believed in nurturing young talent, and Vaibhav’s success highlights the cricketing potential in our state.
“We are confident that he will continue to shine and inspire aspiring cricketers in Bihar and beyond. I congratulate Vaibhav and his family.”