IPL 2026: Jitesh Sharma clarifies ‘unprofessional’ remark on Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, urges everyone to let him enjoy his youth

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) wicketkeeper-batter Jitesh Sharma recently sparked discussion after referring to Rajasthan Royals (RR) opener Vaibhav Sooryavanshi as unprofessional. The remark stemmed from the youngster’s age and lighthearted habits, such as enjoying ice cream and watching cartoons at just 15.

The comment led to some controversy on social media. However, Jitesh later clarified during an RCB podcast that his statement was made in a friendly context, reflecting their close bond and the reality of Sooryavanshi’s young age. He further explained this during a conversation with AB de Villiers on the latter’s YouTube channel.

"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,” said Jitesh on RCB podcast.

Jitesh dismissed the social media backlash, emphasising that Sooryavanshi should be allowed to enjoy his youth despite being in the professional spotlight.

"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,” said Jitesh.

Speaking about their respective campaigns, Jitesh has scored 63 runs in seven innings at a strike rate of 112.50. Meanwhile, Sooryavanshi is enjoying a standout season, amassing 404 runs in 10 innings at an average of 40.40 and a remarkable strike rate of 237.64, including one century and two half-centuries.

RCB will meet Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) on May 7 as their next fixture in Lucknow while RR will lock horns with Gujarat Titans (GT) on May 9 at Sawai Mannsingh Stadium, Jaipur.