At just 14, Vaibhav Suryavanshi is already a name on every cricket fan’s lips. The teenager from Bihar has not only smashed records on the field but has also earned one of India’s highest honours for youth. Vaibhav’s journey from village maidaans to the national stage captures the imagination of millions of young athletes across the country.
In New Delhi today, Vaibhav received the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar (PMRBP) — India’s top civilian award for children aged 5 to 18. He stood tall as President Droupadi Murmu presented him with the award at a grand ceremony. Moments like these show that India values talent and hard work, no matter how young the achiever.
After the ceremony, Vaibhav will also meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This meeting is meant to encourage young achievers and inspire them to dream big.
Why the Award Matters to India’s Youth
The PM Rashtriya Bal Puraskar is given to children who shine in fields like sports, science, arts, bravery, and social service. It highlights young people who work hard and bring pride to the nation. For Vaibhav, this award is a symbol of recognition for his outstanding cricket achievements so far.
Record‑Breaking Performances in Vijay Hazare Trophy
Before the award, Vaibhav’s cricketing skills took the country by storm. In a match for Bihar in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, he blasted an astonishing 190 runs off just 84 balls. He reached his hundred in only 36 balls — one of the fastest in List A cricket history. His fearless batting helped Bihar post a huge team total and stunned fans and experts alike.
This innings made him the youngest player ever to score a List A century, and he also broke the record for the fastest 150 in the format. He struck 16 fours and 15 sixes with powerful shots all around the park.
A Tough Choice: Trophy or National Honour
Vaibhav’s success on the field came with a trade‑off. To attend the award ceremony, he had to leave the Vijay Hazare Trophy early. He missed Bihar’s match against Manipur and will sit out the remainder of the tournament.
For any athlete, this is a hard decision. Competing in national tournaments matters. But receiving a prestigious national award at such a young age is a rare moment — one that few athletes ever experience.
A Role Model for Young Players
Vaibhav’s story inspires more than just cricket fans. It shows young people across India that age is no barrier to greatness. His journey encourages them to work hard, stay focused, and aim high.
Parents, coaches, and children see Vaibhav as a reminder that success comes from effort, passion, and belief.
What’s Next for the Cricket Prodigy
Though he paused his Vijay Hazare campaign, fans and selectors will watch Vaibhav’s career closely. With record‑breaking innings already to his name, many expect him to climb even higher — perhaps towards international cricket in the future.
For now, the applause and the award celebrate not just a cricketing performance, but a young spirit that refuses to be ordinary. His journey has only just begun.