New Delhi: Rising cricket sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has created history by becoming the youngest captain in men’s T20 cricket at the age of 15. He was appointed to lead Bihar in the ongoing Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) 2026.
Sooryavanshi led Bihar in their Elite Group B clash against Saurashtra at the Holkar Stadium in Indore on Saturday. Bihar won the toss and elected to bat first.
With his appointment, the 15-year-old has surpassed several young captains to claim the record by a considerable margin. Croatia’s Zach Vukusic is now second on the list, having captained his national side against Cyprus at the age of 17 years and 311 days on August 7, 2025.
The list also features Taimur Ali, who made his captaincy debut for Quetta Bears in Pakistan’s domestic T20 competition in 2009 at 17 years and 358 days. Meanwhile, Vukusic and Laksh Barkania earned their places through international cricket, while Noman Amjad led France against the Czech Republic in July 2022.
Earlier, the Bihar Cricket Association (BCA) announced a 17-member squad on Friday for the team’s opening two matches of the Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 Trophy, organised by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).
Sooryavanshi was named captain, with Suraj Kashyap appointed vice-captain. According to a BCA release, this will be the first time Vaibhav leads Bihar’s senior team as the side begins its campaign under his leadership.
BCA president Harsh Vardhan said, “Vaibhav has already demonstrated tremendous talent, confidence and maturity at a young age, and this responsibility will provide him with another opportunity to grow as a cricketer and leader. We are hopeful that under Vaibhav’s leadership, the team will deliver a disciplined, competitive and effective performance while representing the state in the upcoming season.”
Earlier this year, Sooryavanshi dominated the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 awards, winning the Most Valuable Player, Emerging Player of the Season, Super Striker of the Season, Orange Cap and Super Sixes of the Season honours.
The 15-year-old Bihar-born batter had an outstanding tournament for Rajasthan Royals, finishing as the highest run-scorer with 776 runs at a strike rate of 237.30.
His consistent performances, including a record-breaking 72 sixes, helped him surpass several long-standing IPL records. He also became the youngest Orange Cap winner in IPL history at 15. The previous record was held by Gujarat Titans opener Sudharsan, who won the award at 23 years and 231 days in 2025. Shubman Gill had set the record in 2023 at 23 years and 263 days.
