New Delhi: Vaibhav Sooryavanshi scripted history in Indian domestic cricket with a breathtaking innings in the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025–26, as the 14-year-old opener produced one of the most extraordinary knocks ever witnessed in the tournament. Representing Bihar in their first Plate Group match of the season, Sooryavanshi smashed a stunning 190 off just 84 balls against Arunachal Pradesh, leaving the cricketing world in awe of his talent, composure, and fearless strokeplay at such a young age.
Opening the batting for the Sakibul Gani-led Bihar side, the teenager dominated the proceedings from the very first over. Facing an Arunachal Pradesh bowling attack that struggled to contain his aggression, Sooryavanshi displayed remarkable confidence and power, traits rarely seen in players so early in their careers. His innings set the tone for Bihar’s batting effort and laid the foundation for a record-shattering team total.
Explosive start and relentless domination
Sooryavanshi wasted no time in asserting his authority at the crease. With a wide array of strokes, he punished loose deliveries and even took on well-directed bowling with confidence. His footwork against spin and balance against pace stood out, underlining his technical maturity.
During his explosive knock, the young opener struck 16 fours and an astonishing 15 sixes, repeatedly clearing the boundary with ease. The Arunachal Pradesh bowlers found no respite as Sooryavanshi continued to find gaps and launch towering hits into the stands. His strike rate remained well above 200 for most of the innings, reflecting the sheer dominance he exerted.
Record-breaking century at just 14
Sooryavanshi brought up his century in just 36 balls, an extraordinary achievement in List A cricket. At the time, it was the second-fastest List A hundred by an Indian batter. Although it later slipped to fourth place after Sakibul Gani and Ishan Kishan scored quicker centuries in 32 and 33 balls respectively on the same day, the significance of Sooryavanshi’s feat remained unmatched due to his age.
At 14 years and 272 days, he became the youngest batter in men’s List A cricket history to score a century. In doing so, he broke a long-standing record held by Pakistan’s Zahoor Elahi, who was 15 years and 209 days old when he scored an unbeaten 103 in 1986. The milestone further cemented Sooryavanshi’s reputation as a once-in-a-generation talent.
First-ever double before turning 15
With this innings, Sooryavanshi also achieved a unique world record. He became the first men’s cricketer in history to score centuries in both List A and T20 cricket before turning 15. The youngster from Samastipur had already made headlines earlier by becoming the youngest player to score a century in T20 cricket and in the Indian Premier League, achievements that had already placed him firmly on the radar of fans and experts alike.
Wednesday’s knock added yet another chapter to his rapidly growing list of records, showcasing his ability to perform consistently across formats despite his tender age.
Racing past legends
Sooryavanshi showed no signs of slowing down after reaching his hundred. He went on to score 150 in just 59 balls, breaking yet another major record. In the process, he surpassed AB de Villiers’ long-standing record for the fastest 150 in List A cricket. De Villiers had taken 64 balls to reach the milestone during the 2015 ODI World Cup match between South Africa and West Indies.
Breaking a record held by one of the modern greats of the game further highlighted the magnitude of Sooryavanshi’s performance. His innings was a blend of raw power, intelligent shot selection, and unshakable self-belief.
Bihar post world record total
Sooryavanshi’s knock played a pivotal role in Bihar posting a monumental total of 574 runs, which became a world record score in List A cricket. The massive total reflected not just individual brilliance, but also the momentum generated by the young opener’s extraordinary innings at the top of the order.
The Arunachal Pradesh bowlers, despite their efforts, were unable to stem the flow of runs, as Bihar capitalised fully on the platform set by Sooryavanshi. The record-breaking total will be remembered as one of the most remarkable moments in domestic cricket history.
A glimpse of the future
Cricket experts and former players have hailed Sooryavanshi’s innings as a glimpse into the future of Indian cricket. Many have pointed out that while raw talent is evident, it is his temperament and ability to handle pressure that truly set him apart.
Despite his age, Sooryavanshi has already shown an understanding of game situations and an ability to adapt his approach, qualities that are essential for success at the highest level.
Conclusion
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s historic 190 in the Vijay Hazare Trophy is more than just a record-breaking innings — it is a statement of intent from a prodigious talent destined for greatness. At just 14, he has rewritten record books, outperformed seasoned professionals, and captured the imagination of cricket fans across the country. As his journey unfolds, Indian cricket will watch closely, hopeful that this extraordinary teenager continues to grow, learn, and shine on even bigger stages.