India's U-19 cricketer Vaibhav Suryavanshi has once again faced allegations of age fraud. Former Pakistan player Junaid Khan, while sharing a video of one of Suryavanshi's performances during the recently held U-19 Asia Cup in the UAE, raised doubts about the capability of a 13-year-old to hit a six that clears the venue's rooftop.

Suryavanshi emerged as one of India's top run-scorers in the Asia Cup, accumulating 176 runs across five innings, equaling the tally of his opening partner Ayush Mahtre. His performance included two half-centuries: a remarkable unbeaten 76 against the host nation UAE, which propelled India into the semifinals, and a score of 67 in the crucial match against Sri Lanka.

Junaid took to Instagram to post a video of Suryavanshi's semifinal innings, where the young player struck five sixes and six fours, earning the Player of the Match accolade in India's seven-wicket triumph. The former Pakistani fast bowler questioned the authenticity of Suryavanshi's age, asking, “Can a 13-year-old hit such a long six?”

'Vaibhav can again undergo an age test'

Suryavanshi made history last month in Jeddah by becoming the youngest cricketer ever sold at an IPL auction at the age of 13. The cricketer from Bihar was purchased by the Rajasthan Royals for INR 1.10 crore.

Shortly after this achievement, allegations of age fraud emerged, with claims suggesting that he is 15 years old. However, his father dismissed these allegations, stating that his son had previously undergone a BCCI bone test five years ago to verify his age. He informed PTI, "When he was 8 and a half years old, he first took a BCCI bone test. He has already played for India U-19. We are not afraid of anyone. He can undergo another age test if necessary."

By March 2025, Suryavanshi will be part of the Rajasthan Royals squad alongside captain Sanju Samson, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and international players such as Jofra Archer. Additionally, he will have the chance to be guided by the Royals' new head coach, Rahul Dravid.

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