When VVS Laxman Saw Vaibhav Suryavanshi Crying and Recommended Him to BCCI That Changed His Life

From tears in the dressing room to IPL history-maker, Vaibhav Suryavanshi’s journey owes much to VVS Laxman’s mentorship, BCCI’s backing, and Rahul Dravid’s nurturing at Rajasthan Royals.

April 29, 2025: How VVS Laxman’s Faith and Rahul Dravid’s Guidance Changed Vaibhav Suryavanshi’s Career

While Rajasthan Royals and coach Rahul Dravid rightly earned plaudits for spotting Vaibhav Suryavanshi’s raw talent, it was VVS Laxman who first changed the trajectory of the 14-year-old’s career.

Also Read: Yusuf Pathan’s Magical Response To Vaibhav Suryavanshi Shattering His 15-Year IPL Record

Suryavanshi, who stole headlines on April 28, 2025, with a record-breaking 35-ball century against Gujarat Titans in Jaipur, first caught the eye during a BCCI U-19 one-day Challenger tournament. His selection came after an impressive showing at an inter-district senior tournament in Bihar. But it was Laxman’s personal intervention that made all the difference.

Also Read: Vaibhav Suryavanshi Credits His Parents For His Success, Says ‘Whatever Result is Visible, Is Due To Them’

During a U-19 quadrangular series match for India B, Suryavanshi was left in tears after being dismissed for 36 runs. VVS Laxman, who witnessed the young batter’s emotional breakdown, approached him with reassuring words:
“We don’t only see the runs here. We see people who have the skill for the long run.”
This moment, as revealed by Vaibhav’s coach Manoj Ojha to The Hindu, cemented Laxman’s belief in his future potential.

Also Read: From Wheelchair To Wild Cheers: Rahul Dravid’s Reaction To Teen Vaibhav Suryavanshi Sensation’s Century Goes Viral, See Video!

The Nurturing Journey

Laxman’s faith in Vaibhav didn’t end there. As per The Indian Express, Laxman, currently heading the National Cricket Academy (NCA), kept a close watch on Suryavanshi’s development for the next two years. It was under his recommendation that Rajasthan Royals head coach Rahul Dravid signed the youngster, ensuring he had the right environment to grow.

Making his debut for Rajasthan Royals on April 19 against Lucknow Super Giants, Vaibhav immediately announced himself by smashing a six off the very first ball he faced from Shardul Thakur. Though dismissed for 34 runs, his fearless approach was evident — as were the tears of passion after his dismissal.

But the real explosion came a week later when Suryavanshi hammered seven fours and eleven sixes en route to a sensational 35-ball century — the fastest-ever by an Indian in IPL history and second-fastest overall. His partnership of 166 runs with Yashasvi Jaiswal helped Rajasthan chase down a daunting target of 210 in just 15.5 overs.

The Bigger Picture

Beyond the numbers, Suryavanshi’s story is a powerful reminder of what belief, nurturing, and mentorship can achieve. In a cricketing world obsessed with instant results, it was VVS Laxman’s long-term vision and the BCCI’s structured backing that allowed a 14-year-old from Bihar to live his dream.

As Suryavanshi’s star continues to rise, one thing is clear: behind every overnight success lies years of silent support and unseen sacrifices.

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Vaibhav Suryavanshi, VVS Laxman, Rahul Dravid, IPL 2025, Rajasthan Royals, IPL records, Indian cricket, BCCI, National Cricket Academy, cricket news, Rajasthan Royals vs Gujarat Titans