After stunning the cricket world with a 35-ball century earlier this week, 14-year-old Vaibhav Suryavanshi experienced the other side of sport’s emotional spectrum — a quick return to earth in Jaipur.

All eyes were on the Rajasthan Royals’ teenage prodigy as he walked out to chase a daunting 218-run target set by Mumbai Indians. But his stay was short-lived. Just two deliveries into his innings, Suryavanshi mistimed a drive off Deepak Chahar and was caught at mid-on by Will Jacks.

The disappointment was evident — both on the young batter’s face and in the stunned silence of the home crowd. It was a sharp contrast to the euphoria that followed his century against Gujarat Titans only three days earlier.

A Tough Lesson in a Harsh Game

Even as the crowd and commentators offered words of encouragement, Rajasthan Royals coach Rahul Dravid had already cautioned that the path of a young star would come with its highs and lows. Thursday’s match served as an early reminder.

Suryavanshi’s dismissal triggered a collapse. The Royals never recovered and were bowled out for just 117, suffering a crushing 100-run defeat that ended their playoff hopes.

Mumbai’s Statement Win

Rohit Sharma, who led MI to a commanding win, took a moment after the match to offer Suryavanshi some kind words and encouragement — a small gesture that underlined how much the youngster’s rise has resonated across the cricket world.

MI, after being asked to bat first, piled on 217/2 — thanks to a blazing start from Ryan Rickelton (61) and Rohit Sharma (53), followed by a late surge from Suryakumar Yadav (48)* and *Hardik Pandya (48)**, who added 94 runs in just 44 balls.

RR’s chase never got going. The home side was reduced to 47/5 inside the powerplay, with Trent Boult (3/28) and Jasprit Bumrah (2/15) doing early damage. Karn Sharma, brought in as an impact sub, cleaned up the tail with 3/23.

What’s Next for Suryavanshi?

Despite the early exit and the disappointment, fans won’t have to wait long to see Suryavanshi back in action. Rajasthan Royals take on Kolkata Knight Riders this Sunday at Eden Gardens, and all eyes will once again be on the IPL’s youngest headline-maker.