'He’s Not Professional': AB de Villiers, Jitesh Sharma Give Opposite Views on Vaibhav Sooryavanshi

Originally posted on CricketGully | Last updated Mar 23, 2026 1:11 PM ET

Youngster Vaibhav Sooryavanshi from Rajasthan Royals has taken center stage as one of the most talked-about players. The young batter first impressed in IPL 2025 after a swift century in 35 balls. This was followed by centuries in Australia, South Africa and England along with a key role in India’s triumph at the U19 World Cup.

As Vaibhav steps onto the field in IPL 2026, he will now be facing a new challenge. This time he is no longer the unknown prodigy whose game plans no opposition is privy to. Bowlers will have enough videos to work upon and plan strategies against him, given the young teenager will turn 15 this Friday and there is more expectation from him.

However, former Royal Challengers Bengaluru star AB de Villiers feels Vaibhav is an outstanding player who has the potential to make it big. During a chat on the #360Show, ABD lauded the youngster for his talent and attitude.

Former RCB star said:

“He’s a great player. I watched him in the Under-19s. It’s not always easy when you get the taste of IPL and big cricket, and still show the same kind of standard. I was very impressed with the way he played in that World Cup. Very professional. He’s very mature for his age."

AB de Villiers added:

“I’m talking about the way he played. He still kept to his game plan. He played the same way he played the IPL. Didn’t try to be something else. He wasn’t arrogant against the bowlers. But he will get professional.”

Watch the video here:

Jitesh Sharma Shares Honest Opinion on Vaibhav

On the contrary, RCB wicket-keeper batter Jitesh Sharma holds a contrasting opinion. Even then, he believes in Vaibhav’s ability and went on to pick him as the only young player in whom he would invest.

Jitesh Sharma said:

"Right now, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi. I feel he can dominate world cricket. He has gear No. 6 and a very good set of skills."

However, Jitesh also gave a light-hearted yet honest take on Vaibhav’s discipline away from the field, saying that the young Indian cricketer is yet to become professional and will find it hard to attain in the long run.

He added:

“He’s not professional. I can tell you that. Everyone is trying to get him to be professional, but I don’t think he will ever get professional. He may be on the field, but off the field, he won’t. I’m trying my best. I ask him not to have ice-cream in the night."

This clearly highlights the contrasting views on the youngster's progression, while his skill on the field is undisputable, his progress as a professional may face an uphill battle. It will be interesting to see how he handles the pressure as it has been observed in previous cases. Vaibhav is certain to face tougher competition and strategies against him in IPL 2026.

This article first appeared on CricketGully and was syndicated with permission.

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