Royal Challengers Bengaluru wicket-keeper Jitesh Sharma has explained the intent behind his comment describing Rajasthan Royals teenager Vaibhav Sooryavanshi as “unprofessional”, a line that had led to discussion on social media. The remark originally came during a chat with AB de Villiers on his YouTube channel, where Jitesh was asked to name a young Indian player with big potential. He instantly picked Sooryavanshi, praising his overall skill set and temperament. “AB asked, ‘Which youngster do you think could become an Indian star or player?’ My immediate answer was Vaibhav Sooryavanshi. When he asked why, I pointed to his technique, mentality, and hard work. I told him that Vaibhav could dominate all three formats and that he looks very professional on the field. But in reality, he isn’t just that,” Jitesh said. Later, speaking on an RCB podcast, Jitesh clarified the context and stressed the personal equation he shares with the 15-year-old. “He is a very good friend of mine. We are very close, and I can call him anything,” he said. He also opened up about Sooryavanshi’s off-field behaviour, describing him as a typical teenager who enjoys simple things in life. “He is a 15-year-old kid who loves ice cream. He comes to my room and eats it with me; I don’t eat it, but he does. If a child doesn’t want ice cream, what else would they have? He visits our house, speaks with my wife, and watches videos on YouTube. We are very close-he’s like my younger brother.” Responding to the backlash, Jitesh brushed aside criticism and emphasised that the youngster should not be burdened with expectations beyond his age. “I don’t care what people say. There is a lot of professionalism expected of him because he has to perform at this level, but he is still only 15. Let a child be a child. When he is with me, he can be himself because I don’t judge him. I tell him, ‘You’re only fifteen. Watch TV, eat whatever you want, and just focus on your batting.‘ He’s happy that way.”
