Doha, Nov 21 (UNI) India A captain Jitesh Sharma’s strategic decisions in the Super Over drew attention after his team suffered a narrow defeat in a thrilling contest against Bangladesh A in the semifinals of ACC Men’s Asia Cup Rising Stars on Friday.
Jitesh candidly reflected on the match, emphasising learning and experience, but the failed Super Over strategy is likely to be closely analysed by selectors and cricket experts.
The skipper explained that the Super Over lineup was a combination of team discussion and his own call.
“They are masters of the powerplay (Vaibhav Suryavanshi and Priyansh Arya), but in the death overs, me, Ashutosh Sharma and Ramandeep Singh are the ones who can hit at will. So it was a team decision and my decision,” he said. He stressed that the choices were made considering the team’s strengths and the match situation, but acknowledged that execution didn’t go as planned.
The turning point, according to Jitesh, was his own dismissal. “My wicket was the turning point. I know how to handle these situations. They bowled really well. Whoever (Ripon Mondal) bowled the 19th over, credit to him,” he said, conceding that a key moment in the Super Over swung the match in favour of the opposition.
Jitesh praised the opposition players for their performance, highlighting the talent on display. “That leftie guy (SM Meherob) who played the innings, incredible to play such shots; they also have an incredible future,” he noted, underscoring that the loss was also a learning experience.
He added, “You never know, these guys may win a World Cup for India some day. In terms of talent, they’re touching the sky. It’s all about learning and experience.”
Despite the setback, Jitesh maintained a positive outlook, emphasising responsibility and team spirit.
“Good game of cricket, good learning for us. I will take all responsibility. As a senior, I should finish the game. It’s about learning, not losing. All 20 overs we were in control, don’t blame anyone. It’s a good game, that’s it,” he said, showing accountability while focusing on the growth of the team. UNI BDN SSP
