Dubai: Young India batter Vaibhav Suryavanshi delivered a sensational performance in the opening match of the Under-19 Asia Cup, hammering 171 off just 95 balls against UAE U19 on Friday. His explosive knock fell only six runs short of Ambati Rayudu’s 177, the long-standing highest score by an Indian in youth one-day cricket.
The 14-year-old prodigy smashed nine fours and 14 sixes, showcasing remarkable stroke-play before being bowled attempting a paddle sweep in the 33rd over. His innings powered India to a massive 433 for 6 after being asked to bat first. In reply, UAE reached 199 for 7, handing India a commanding 234-run victory. Suryavanshi was named Player of the Match.
A Breakthrough Year for India’s Youngest Batting Sensation
Suryavanshi’s exploits come on the back of a phenomenal run across formats:
- 42-ball 144 vs UAE at the Rising Stars Asia Cup in Doha
– Joint-third fastest T20 hundred by an Indian
– Reached his century in just 32 balls, the joint-sixth fastest in men’s T20 cricket - 61-ball 108 in Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy*
– Youngest centurion in the tournament’s history - Youngest IPL century-maker (2025 season)
– Scored 101 off 38 for Rajasthan Royals vs Gujarat Titans
– Finished IPL 2025 with 252 runs at a strike rate of 206.55, all as an opener
– Also became the youngest IPL auction pick at age 13
Consistent Performer in Youth International Cricket
Following the IPL, Suryavanshi toured England and Australia with the India Under-19 team:
- Scored a 78-ball century in Brisbane during the multi-day matches against Australia U19
- Finished as the second-highest run-scorer of the series (133 runs in 3 innings)
- Earlier amassed 355 runs at a strike rate of 174.01 in the one-day series against England U19
Strong Contender for the U19 World Cup Squad
Given his continued dominance, Suryavanshi is widely expected to feature in India’s squad for next month’s Under-19 World Cup in Namibia and Zimbabwe.
