The Indian Premier League (IPL) never fails to impress with the talent it discovers through a rigorous scouting system. As the motto says, "Where Talent Meets Opportunity," this rings true season after season. Since the season in 1 IPL, the league has unearthed numerous young talents, and this year, history was made when 14-year-old Vaibhav Suryavanshi made his IPL debut for the Rajasthan Royals. It's hard to believe without witnessing the magic firsthand. Meanwhile, check out the list of the youngest players to make their debut in the IPL.
Vaibhav Suryavanshi - 14 years, 23 days (RR) vs. LSG, 2025
The cricket world witnessed a miracle when the 14-year-old teenager hit Shardul Thakur for a six in his very first ball in the big leagues. Suryavanshi's debut was nothing short of miraculous, as he was selected by the Rajasthan Royals to open the innings alongside Yashasvi Jaiswal. He scored 34 runs off 20 balls, hitting 2 fours and 3 sixes. His outstanding debut was full of intent and a masterclass—a performance to remember for the young cricketer.
Prayas Ray Barman - 16 years, 157 days (RCB) vs. SRH, 2019
A leg-spin bowler from Bengal, Prayas Ray Barman was picked by Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the 2019 mini-auction for 1.5 crores after an impressive season in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, where he was the top wicket-taker for his team. He made his debut against Sunrisers Hyderabad at the age of 16, but his performance was one to forget as he conceded 56 runs in 4 overs. The SRH batters took his leg-spin apart with ease, but he held the record for the youngest IPL debut before Vaibhav Suryavanshi broke it in the IPL 2025.
Mujeeb Ur Rahman - 17 years, 11 days (PBKS) vs. DC, 2018
A young spin wizard from Afghanistan, Mujeeb Ur Rahman made his IPL debut for Punjab Kings in 2018 against Delhi Capitals. Mujeeb showcased his talent by taking two wickets on his debut, dismissing both Colin Munro and Rishabh Pant, while also executing a run-out of Gautam Gambhir. Since then, he has played for three different teams, appearing in 20 matches and taking 20 wickets. He was recently picked by Mumbai Indians as an injury replacement for the current season.
Riyan Parag - 17 years, 152 days (RR) vs. CSK, 2019
Rajasthan Royals discovered another gem in Riyan Parag, who made his debut against Chennai Super Kings in 2019 at the age of 17. Though he had a modest impact in his debut, scoring 16 runs off 14 balls with 2 boundaries, he gradually improved in subsequent seasons. His prime form emerged in 2024, earning him the opportunity to lead Rajasthan Royals in the IPL 2025 in the absence of Sanju Samson.
Pradeep Sangwan - 17 years, 179 days (DC) vs. CSK, 2008
Pradeep Sangwan was selected over a young Virat Kohli under the mandatory domestic player pick rule by Delhi Capitals in the inaugural season. Remarkably, he was not yet eligible to drive when he made his IPL debut against CSK. His performance was fruitful, as he was the best bowler for his team in that match, taking 2 wickets—those of Vidyut Sivaramakrishnan and Suresh Raina. Since then, he has played for five different teams in the IPL, accumulating over 1240 runs and taking over 38 wickets in 42 matches. He has also won two IPL title with Gujarat Titans and Kolkata Knight Riders.
