Rising star Surya Vanshi has once again captured attention with a sensational performance for India A against the United Arab Emirates in the Asia Cup. The 14-year-old smashed a whirlwind century in just 32 balls, eventually finishing on 144 runs off 42 deliveries, including 15 sixes and 11 fours.
At just 14 years and 232 days old, Vanshi became the youngest cricketer to score a century while representing the national team at a senior level. Previously, Bangladesh’s Mushfiqur Rahim held a similar record, scoring an unbeaten 111 at 16 years and 171 days in first-class cricket—surpassed now by Vanshi after 20 years.
This innings is not only a record in terms of age; it also ranks as the joint fifth fastest century in men’s T20 cricket. Vanshi capitalised on an early drop, with a UAE fielder spilling his catch on the very first ball, and never looked back.
India A Team Performance and Surya Vanshi’s Contribution:
| Batsman | Runs | Balls | Fours | Sixes | Strike Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Surya Vanshi | 144 | 42 | 11 | 15 | 342.85 |
| Jitesh Sharma (Captain) | 83* | 32 | – | – | – |
India A posted a massive total of 297/4. In reply, UAE were bowled out for 149/7, falling short by 148 runs. India’s left-arm pacer Gurjpanit Singh took 3 wickets for just 18 runs in 4 overs.
This extraordinary innings by Vanshi is a clear statement: the new generation of cricketers is ready to make a massive impact on the international stage, and the cricketing world should take notice.