Teenage Cricketer Vaibhav Sooryavanshi Becomes Youngest on Time100 Next List
Fifteen-year-old Indian cricketer Vaibhav Sooryavanshi is the youngest individual named on the 2026 Time100 Next list, which highlights 100 emerging global talents. Sooryavanshi joins seven other athletes, including Arch Manning and Tyrese Maxey, recognized for their influence in sports. He previously made history as the youngest player signed in an Indian Premier League auction and the youngest to score a T20 century. The list, compiled by Time Magazine, spans various fields and will be celebrated at an event in New York on October 29.
Key points
- Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, aged 15, is the youngest person included in the 2026 Time100 Next list.
- The list identifies 100 emerging talents across sports, entertainment, politics, and business.
- Sooryavanshi is one of seven athletes named, alongside Arch Manning, Tyrese Maxey, Naomi Girma, Folarin Balogun, Alexandra Eala, and Olivia Miles.
- He was signed by Rajasthan Royals at age 13 in the 2024 IPL auction, the youngest ever at the time.
- Sooryavanshi became the youngest player to score a century in men's T20 cricket after his debut in 2025.
- Time CEO Jessica Sibley described the list-makers as pushing boundaries and advancing their fields.
Background
Our archive from September 30, 2026, confirms that the Time100 Next list features three worldwide covers highlighting singer Raye, actor Ashley Padilla, and comedian Druski. The list spans categories including phenoms, artists, leaders, innovators, and advocates, with themes focusing on education access, AI revolution, and immigration. The event is sponsored by Rolex, Toyota, Project Management Institute, and Target. Earlier coverage from August 18, 2026, noted Witney Carson's pregnancy and return to Dancing With the Stars, while September 19, 2026, covered Lady Gaga's daughter Rose. September 12, 2026, reported England's 3-0 series sweep over Pakistan in cricket, highlighting Joe Root and Jordan Cox.
Why it matters
Sooryavanshi's inclusion highlights the accelerating trajectory of young athletes in global sports, particularly in cricket, where record-breaking performances at a young age are increasingly common. His recognition by Time Magazine underscores the growing influence of sports figures in broader cultural and social narratives, aligning with the list's focus on individuals shaping the future across diverse sectors.
What to watch
The Time100 Next event will take place in New York on October 29, featuring performances by Raye and appearances by Druski, Conan Gray, and Eiza González. Sooryavanshi's continued development in international cricket, particularly in T20 formats, will be closely watched as he transitions from a record-breaking youth to a regular contributor for India and Rajasthan Royals.
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