10-Apr-2025,06:40 PM As the T20 World Cup inches closer, several Indian cricketers are pushing their limits to cement a spot in the final squad. Among them is Jitesh Sharma, the aggressive wicketkeeper-batsman from Vidarbha, who has steadily emerged as a promising finisher in the Indian Premier League (IPL) and domestic circuit. In a recent interview, Jitesh opened up about his thought process, emphasizing the importance of “scoring runs” over “seeking selection.”
The clarity in Jitesh Sharma’s approach reflects the mindset of a cricketer who understands the competition, values consistency, and is driven by merit.
Jitesh Sharma Rise in Indian Cricket
Jitesh Sharma made headlines during the 2022 and 2023 IPL seasons for his clean-hitting abilities and cool temperament under pressure while playing for Punjab Kings. Known for his fearless brand of cricket, especially in death overs, he has built a reputation as a reliable finisher—something India has lacked post-MS Dhoni.
His consistent performances at the domestic level, particularly in Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and IPL, eventually earned him a call-up to the Indian national side. Though opportunities have been limited, Jitesh Sharma has shown flashes of brilliance with the bat, making his case stronger with each outing.
Jitesh Sharma : “Performance Speaks Louder Than Anything” — Jitesh’s Selection Philosophy
When asked about his hopes for the T20 World Cup squad, Jitesh Sharma responded candidly: “To get picked, I know I have to score. That’s the only thing in my control.” His simple yet powerful statement highlights a grounded understanding of modern-day selection criteria—form and impact matter more than expectations or hype.
He added that rather than thinking too much about selection, his focus remains on delivering match-winning performances consistently. For Jitesh, the game is the best pitch to prove his worth, not press conferences or speculation.
Jitesh Sharma vs. the Competition
A Crowded Field for the Finisher Role
The Indian team currently has no dearth of wicketkeeper-batters vying for a World Cup spot—Sanju Samson, Ishan Kishan, KL Rahul, and Rishabh Pant (returning from injury) are all strong contenders. However, Jitesh Sharma’s unique X-factor lies in his fearless batting in the lower middle order, which sets him apart.
Most of India’s top contenders prefer opening or playing in the top 3. Jitesh, on the other hand, thrives between overs 14 to 20, turning matches around with calculated aggression. With the T20 World Cup likely to be played on fast pitches in the Americas and Caribbean, India will need reliable finishers—and Jitesh Sharma fits the bill.
Recent Form and IPL Performance
Consistency in Pressure Situations
In the ongoing IPL 2025 season, Jitesh Sharma has continued to impress with his explosive cameos. Whether it’s rescuing Punjab Kings from top-order collapses or accelerating in the final overs, his strike rate of over 150 is a testament to his ability to make every ball count.
Selectors closely watch IPL performances, especially in a World Cup year. With each impactful inning, Jitesh Sharma is not just stacking up runs—he’s making a statement.
Backing from Legends and Experts
Praise from Cricketing Icons
Several former cricketers and analysts have backed Jitesh Sharma for a spot in the T20 squad. Sunil Gavaskar recently remarked that Jitesh brings the “kind of power-hitting India needs in crunch games,” while Virender Sehwag lauded his ability to “stay calm under pressure and still go big.”
Even former coach Ravi Shastri mentioned that Sharma’s domestic grounding and IPL experience make him a “ready-made T20 package.”
Mindset Over Hype: Sharma’s Message to Young Cricketers
“Run Behind Performance, Not Selection”
Apart from his own goals, Jitesh Sharma shared a valuable message for aspiring cricketers. He stressed the importance of preparation, mental focus, and consistent hard work. According to him, “If you keep focusing on who’s getting selected and who’s not, you’ll lose your own game. Play every game like it’s your last, and the rest will follow.”
This calm and balanced attitude might just be what team India needs in the high-pressure atmosphere of a World Cup.
What Lies Ahead for Jitesh Sharma?
A Finisher-in-Waiting
As India gears up for the T20 World Cup, the squad composition will hinge on form, fitness, and role-specific skills. Jitesh Sharma, with his fearless batting, swift glove work, and cool temperament, makes a compelling case.
Whether or not he makes the final cut, Jitesh has already won the admiration of fans and experts alike. More importantly, he’s shown the next generation how to handle the unpredictable world of Indian cricket—with poise, passion, and patience.
Conclusion: Jitesh Sharma’s Gameplan—Let the Bat Decide
In an era where social media campaigns and hype often cloud selection debates, Jitesh Sharma stands out with his clear, performance-driven mindset. His mantra is simple—score runs, win games, and the jersey will follow.
As the Indian team prepares to finalize its World Cup squad, one thing is certain: Jitesh Sharma has already played one of the most important innings—earning respect through consistent performance and humility.
