Cuttack, Dec 10 (UNI) Wicketkeeper-batter Jitesh Sharma boosted his chances of securing India’s gloves for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup with an impressive all-round performance in India’s commanding 101-run victory over South Africa in the first T20I.
According to the International Cricket Council (ICC) website, Jitesh contributed valuable late runs in a brief finishing cameo before taking four catches behind the stumps, falling just one short of equalling MS Dhoni’s national T20I record of five dismissals in a match.
Known for his finishing skills in the IPL with Punjab Kings and Royal Challengers Bengaluru, the 32-year-old has quickly established himself as a strong late-overs option for India.
He played a key role in India’s successful chase against Australia in Hobart last month and now appears to be auditioning for the finisher’s role ahead of the T20 World Cup that India will co-host with Sri Lanka from February 7.
“I think that’s my bread and butter, finishing the games,” a confident Jitesh declared after India’s commanding 101-run victory. “It is a difficult job. It is a thankless job, basically, finishing games.
“But I enjoy the pressure. When I go in for the last six or five overs, I enjoy the pressure and excitement,” he added.
Jitesh’s rise puts pressure on fellow wicketkeeper Sanju Samson, who is also in the South Africa series squad and delivered decent outings during the Asia Cup earlier this year. However, Jitesh said their rivalry is healthy and supportive.
“Frankly speaking, he is like an elder brother. With healthy competition, your talent comes out. It is good for the team too. There is so much talent. You can feel it,” Jitesh noted.
“Sanju bhaiya is a great player. I have to compete with him; that is when I have to be at my best. We are both trying to play for India. We are like brothers. We share a lot of experience. He helps me a lot.”
India T20I squad: Suryakumar Yadav (c), Shubman Gill (vc), Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Jitesh Sharma, Sanju Samson, Jasprit Bumrah, Varun Chakaravarthy, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Harshit Rana, Washington Sundar.
