For Windows XP 32 bit you probably use WinpkFilter NDIS-hooking driver which intercepts bindings between TCPIP and network interfaces. This type of driver does not care about underlying network interface media type.
Unlike NDIS-hooking driver other WinpkFilter drivers (NDIS IM and NDIS LFW) are installed to filter media types specified in INF file. Current INF files specify ethernet, wan and ppip network media types. You can add nolower media type (VMWare adapters has this media type) into the INF file and this will cause WinpkFilter driver to bind to VMWare adapters. However, besides VMWare network adapters WinpkFilter will be also installed to filter other network interfaces with nolower media. This may cause stability side effects, so you can try this on your own risk.