Jitesh Sharma Calls Vaibhav Suryavanshi ‘Not Professional’ Ahead of IPL 2026

With the 2026 Indian Premier League campaign just days away, Rajasthan Royals' teenage sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi continues to capture attention both on and off-the-field.

The 14-year-old opening batter made headlines last season by smashing his maiden IPL century and has since rewritten record books in India’s age-group cricket, establishing himself as one of the country’s most exciting young talents.

Amid the soaring hype, Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s Jitesh Sharma offered a candid take on the young prodigy’s habits off the field.

Speaking during a conversation with AB de Villiers on the former South Africa captain’s YouTube channel, Jitesh praised Vaibhav’s on-field performance but questioned his off-field discipline.

"But I was very impressed with how he played in that World Cup-very professional. He's incredibly mature for his age," he added.

Why Does Jitesh Sharma Call Suryavanshi Not Professional Off the Field?

Jitesh highlighted the contrast, noting, "I'm talking about the way he played. He stuck to his game plan. He played the same way he did in the IPL. He didn't try to be someone else. He wasn't arrogant against the bowlers. But he will become professional."

On Vaibhav’s off-field habits, Jitesh revealed some playful yet pointed observations. "He's not professional. I can tell you that," he said with a laugh.

"Everyone is trying to get him to be professional, but I don't think he ever will be, at least not off the field. On the field, maybe. I'm trying my best. I ask him not to have ice cream at night, but he never listens,” he added.

The young batter’s on-field brilliance juxtaposed with his late-night ice cream indulgences adds an endearing layer to his rising stardom.

As Suryavanshi prepares for IPL 2026, diet and fitness will be crucial in determining how far the 14-year-old can progress in his promising cricket career.