Sun Dec 01 10:46:30 UTC 2024: ## 13-Year-Old Cricketer Vaibhav Suryavanshi Focuses on Asia Cup Amidst IPL Hype
**Dubai, UAE** – Thirteen-year-old Vaibhav Suryavanshi, the youngest player ever to secure an Indian Premier League (IPL) contract, has dismissed the excitement surrounding his recent achievement, prioritizing his current goal: winning the ongoing U-19 Asia Cup with Team India.
Suryavanshi, a left-handed batsman from Bihar, was acquired by the Rajasthan Royals for a hefty ₹1.10 crore ($134,000 USD) at the IPL 2025 mega auction in Jeddah. He previously made headlines as the youngest Indian to score an international century, achieving the feat against Australia U-19 earlier this year.
Despite the social media frenzy following his IPL acquisition, Suryavanshi has disconnected from online platforms to concentrate fully on the Asia Cup. “I am not bothered about what is happening around… I have come to play the Asia Cup and am only focused on winning the trophy,” he told the official broadcaster.
Suryavanshi’s cricketing journey has been remarkable. At just 12, he became the youngest player to debut in the Ranji Trophy. His talent was further showcased when he scored nearly 400 runs in five Vinoo Mankad Trophy matches for Bihar. His impressive 62-ball century against Australia U-19 last October secured him trials with the Rajasthan Royals, where he further impressed the team’s support staff with a stunning display of hitting.
The young batsman cites West Indies legend Brian Lara as his idol, emulating Lara’s style of play. “I idolize Brian Lara. I have grown up seeing him and try to pace the innings like he used to do,” Suryavanshi stated. For now, however, all attention is focused on the Asia Cup and bringing home the victory.
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