IPL 2026 Watchlist: The youngest players set to shake IPL 2026
IPL 2026 features a record number of teenage players, led by 14-year-old Vaibhav Suryavanshi, as franchises double down on youth, fearlessness and long-term potential.
- Dec 23, 2025,
- Updated Dec 23, 2025 2:02 PM IST
- 1/10
At just 14, Vaibhav Suryavanshi isn’t just breaking records—he’s redefining age limits in elite sport. His T20 century at 13 stunned scouts, and performance analysts say such early composure usually appears years later, if at all.
- 2/10
Leadership arrived early for Ayush Mhatre, who captained India U-19 while still adapting to senior bowling attacks. Coaches say his temperament, not just talent, convinced franchises he belongs at IPL level already.
- 3/10
Picked after eye-catching U-19 performances, Sahil Parakh brings raw aggression and calm under pressure. Domestic analysts believe his late-innings striking mirrors the modern IPL prototype franchises now actively chase.
- 4/10
Left-arm wrist spinner Satvik Deswal earned an IPL deal through control, not hype. Coaches point out that sub-six economy rates in T20 leagues are rare for teenagers—making him a calculated long-term bet.
- 5/10
Still 18, Vihaan Malhotra already looks built for responsibility. Batting coaches highlight his ability to absorb pressure—often the missing link when young batters jump into franchise cricket.
- 6/10
All-rounders mature late—but Kanishk Chouhan arrived early. Youth selectors say his balanced skillset explains why franchises are willing to invest before numbers fully explode.
- 7/10
Standing over 6 feet tall, Yash Raj Punja brings awkward bounce that data analysts say troubles batters more than raw pace—making him a fascinating tactical option in Indian conditions.
- 8/10
When Chennai Super Kings splurged on Kartik Sharma, eyebrows rose. Power-hitting metrics from domestic cricket suggest why franchises now gamble big on strike-rate potential over experience.
- 9/10
Fast bowler Kwena Maphaka entered the IPL radar before his international debut. Bowling experts say his U-19 numbers showed rare control at high pace—an IPL-ready combination.
- 10/10
Already a Test centurion, Lhuan-dre Pretorius blends youth with pedigree. Talent scouts view his IPL inclusion as proof that teenage readiness now transcends nationality and format labels.