The comment, which stirred controversy on social media, was made during a discussion in which Sharma seemed to be calling into question the 15-year-old’s professionalism, as they both participated in the Rising Stars Asia Cup last year.
He has maintained his position but clarified that it was not a critique of Sooryavanshi’s cricket skills.
Sharma explained that his remark was based on Sooryavanshi’s age and typical teenage behaviour, such as enjoying ice cream and watching cartoons. He emphasized that the term was used casually given their friendship.
“I don’t mind what people think. There’s a level of professionalism he needs to uphold at this stage, but he is just 15. Let a child enjoy being a child. When he’s with me, he can be himself because I don’t judge him. I remind him, ‘You’re only fifteen. Watch TV, eat what you like, and concentrate on your batting.’ He feels good that way,” Jitesh mentioned in a recent interview.
He further noted, “He is a 15-year-old boy who enjoys ice cream. He comes to my room to share it with me; I may not eat it, but he does. If a kid doesn’t want ice cream, what else can they have? He comes to our home, chats with my wife, and watches YouTube videos. We are very close—he’s like my younger brother.”
Despite the wording, Sharma commended the young player’s potential, highlighting his technique, mentality, and work ethic as signs of a promising career in Indian cricket.
Sooryavanshi, who has become one of the standout players this season, continues to draw attention for both his performances and the discussions surrounding his rapid ascent. He has accumulated 404 runs in 10 innings played thus far, with a strike rate near 238, including a single century and two half-centuries.
