When Vaibhav Rajesh Suryavanshi, a 14‑year‑old prodigy from Rajgir in Nalanda district, was unveiled as the new vice‑captain of Bihar’s Ranji team on , the cricket world collectively raised an eyebrow.
The announcement came straight from the Bihar Cricket Association (BCA) during a press briefing at the historic Moin‑ul‑Haq Stadium in Patna. The selection committee, led by former India all‑rounder Syed Mohammad, cited "exceptional leadership qualities" and a batting average of 69.57 in the under‑16 circuit as the chief reasons for the bold move.
Why Bihar chose a teenager for a senior role
Bihar’s senior side has been reshuffling its leadership after a disappointing 2024‑25 Ranji run. Captain Ashutosh Aman, the 28‑year‑old fast bowler with 217 first‑class wickets, welcomed the youngster’s inclusion as a fresh voice for the dressing‑room.
"Youth brings a different energy," Aman told reporters. "Vaibhav’s cricketing IQ is beyond his years, and he’ll push us to think smarter on the field." The BCA’s long‑term plan, according to the official release, is to nurture home‑grown talent early so that the state can field a cohesive unit for the next decade.
Breaking records – but still bound by BCCI rules
At 14, Suryavanshi becomes the youngest vice‑captain in the Ranji Trophy 2025‑26 – a tournament that has been the pinnacle of Indian domestic cricket since . The previous record belonged to Rajasthan’s Riyan Parag, who was 16 years and 8 months old when he wore the armband in 2017‑18.
However, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) still bars him from playing any first‑class match until he turns 15. The rule, first introduced in 2010 and tweaked in 2019, requires a player to be at least 15 before September 1 of the tournament year. Since Vaibhav was born on , he will become eligible only after , roughly a month before the Ranji final.
In practice, this means he will sit in on strategy meetings, training camps, and possibly travel with the squad, but he won’t step onto the field until his birthday. Times Now News reported that the BCA has arranged a tailored academic schedule with Delhi Public School, Nalanda so his studies don’t slip while he’s on the road.
Performance pedigree that earned him the armband
Vaibhav’s stats read like a teenager’s bestseller list. In the 2024‑25 under‑16 season, he smashed 487 runs across seven matches, notching three centuries and a half‑century. His most talked‑about knock came in the Bihar Premier League (BPL) on , when he blasted 103 off just 58 balls for the Nalanda Warriors at Keenan Stadium in Jamshedpur, becoming the youngest centurion in BPL history at 13 years, 4 months.
Former India star and BCA advisor Suresh Raina praised the youngster in a video interview, saying, "His temperament and cricketing intelligence are remarkable for his age. This appointment sends a strong message about Bihar's commitment to youth development."
How the Ranji season will unfold for Bihar
The 2025‑26 Ranji Trophy kicks off on and runs through . Bihar has been placed in the Elite Group B, with matches scheduled across venues in Patna, Ranchi and Ranchi’s JNV Stadium. The final will be held at the iconic Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.
Coach Rohit Singh (not to be confused with the Indian opener) told local media that the squad will treat Vaibhav’s presence as a learning curve. "He may not be on the field, but his input in the locker room is valuable. Young minds often see solutions that experienced players overlook," Singh noted.
Broader implications for Indian cricket
Vaibhav’s promotion could spark a ripple across other state associations. If the BCA’s experiment pays off, we might see a wave of teenage leaders taking on senior responsibilities, reshaping the traditional hierarchy of Indian domestic cricket.
Critics argue that such early exposure could add pressure on a youngster still navigating school life. Yet the BCA maintains that the benefits outweigh the risks, emphasizing that the player will continue his education and only play after turning 15.
Key facts
- Vice‑captain appointment announced:
- Player: Vaibhav Rajesh Suryavanshi, age 14, born 15 Mar 2011
- Runs scored in U‑16 season: 487 at 69.57 average
- Youngest BPL century: 103 off 58 balls, 18 Sep 2024
- Eligibility to play first‑class matches: after 15 years (16 Mar 2026)
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Vaibhav’s appointment affect the Bihar senior team?
The presence of a teenage vice‑captain brings fresh perspective to team meetings and training camps. While he won’t play until after his 15th birthday, his insights on strategy and youthful energy are expected to boost morale and help the senior players stay adaptable.
Will other state associations follow Bihar’s lead?
Experts suggest Bihar’s move could set a precedent, especially if Suryavanshi’s mentorship yields tangible results. Some boards have already hinted at pilot programs for younger leadership, but any widespread shift will depend on BCCI’s stance on age‑related eligibility.
What are the BCCI’s age rules for Ranji participation?
The BCCI mandates that a player must be at least 15 years old before September 1 of the tournament year to be eligible for the full Ranji season. Players who turn 15 after that cutoff can join the side only for matches scheduled later in the season.
How will Vaibhav balance school and cricket duties?
Delhi Public School, Nalanda, has agreed to a flexible timetable, allowing Vaibhav to attend classes remotely during travel. The BCA also promises tutoring support at training venues, ensuring that his academic progress isn’t compromised.
When can we expect to see Vaibhav play in a Ranji match?
He will become eligible on , just before the tournament’s final rounds. If Bihar reaches the knockout stages, fans could witness his debut in a high‑stakes game.