Sanju Samson draws ire from fans for not applauding Vaibhav Suryavanshi’s record knock

Vaibhav Suryavanshi, Sanju Samson (Pic: IPL/X/Screengrab)

Representing Rajasthan Royals, batting prodigy Vaibhav Suryavanshi on Monday etched his name in cricketing history by becoming the youngest player to score a century in senior men's T20 cricket. Aged just 14 years and 32 days, Suryavanshi powered Rajasthan Royals to a dominant victory over Gujarat Titans in the IPL, lighting up Jaipur's Sawai Mansingh Stadium with a breathtaking innings.

The left-handed batter, who made his IPL debut on April 19, unleashed a fearless assault on the Titans' bowling attack, racing to a century in just 35 deliveries. His explosive knock featured seven boundaries and an astonishing 11 sixes, leaving the opposition stunned and the crowd in awe. Suryavanshi eventually fell for 101 off 38 balls, bowled by pacer Prasidh Krishna, but not before receiving a standing ovation from the stadium and the Royals' dugout for his heroic performance.

By achieving this milestone, Suryavanshi broke the previous record held by Vijay Zol, who scored a century at 18 years and 118 days for Maharashtra in a domestic T20 match against Mumbai in 2013.

While the cricketing world celebrated the teenager's landmark achievement, social media users took note of a moment involving Rajasthan Royals regular captain Sanju Samson, with a few expressing disappointment over visuals showing him seated on the bench while the rest of the team stood to applaud Suryavanshi's hundred.

However, those initial impressions were soon corrected. Other fans later shared images confirming that Samson did, in fact, rise to his feet to congratulate the young star, dispelling any claims of indifference from the skipper. Interestingly, some fans noted that Vaibhav was actually using Samson's bat during his innings.

Affectionately nicknamed 'Boss Baby' by commentators for his youthful appearance and mature batting approach, Suryavanshi exudes confidence beyond his years. Speaking after the match, he emphasised his fearless mindset at the crease, stating he has 'no fear' when facing the world's top bowlers.

The Royals secured the teenage sensation in the IPL auction for 130,500 dollards (Rs 1.1 crore) while he was still just 13 years old. He made an immediate impact on debut against Lucknow Super Giants, entering the game as an impact substitute and announcing his arrival in style by smashing his very first ball, a flat-batted six over extra cover, off pacer Shardul Thakur.