Jitesh Sharma, the dynamic batsman and accomplished wicketkeeper, has been making waves with his exceptional performances, earning him a spot in the Indian team for the upcoming Hangzhou Asian Games. In an exclusive conversation with ABP Live, the Vidarbha-based player expressed his pride in representing the nation in such a prestigious tournament and his determination to make India proud.

As Jitesh Sharma prepares to take the field for India in the Hangzhou Asian Games, he acknowledges the immense pride and responsibility that come with wearing the national colours.

"If we manage to get Gold, it will be a different feeling altogether. India is a highly populated country, and the stakes are way higher as people expect a lot from you. The Indian cricket team is getting to play in the tournament after a long haul and we will be looking forward to making the country proud”, Jitesh told ABP Live.

Having previously been called up to the Indian team as a backup wicketkeeper, Jitesh experienced the camaraderie and warmth of the Indian dressing room. He fondly recalled his initial interaction with Indian cricketer Hardik Pandya, who encouraged him to stay true to his game and play fearlessly. The friendly and supportive atmosphere made him feel at home and helped him gel with his teammates.

IPL Success And Transition To International Cricket

Jitesh Sharma's consistent performances in the IPL, especially during the 2022 season, paved the way for his selection in the Indian team. His ability to adapt to the pressure of high-profile matches and maintain a positive mindset has been key to his growth as a player. As he gears up for the Asian Games, Jitesh remains confident in his abilities and focuses on delivering match-winning performances.

Hailing from Vidarbha, Jitesh Sharma has overcome numerous challenges on his path to success. Supported by his family and inspired by senior players, Jitesh persevered through tough times to emerge as a top-notch cricketer.

“I think after 19, I felt that I can pursue cricket on a professional front. At an early age, people hardly decode what they want to do or what not. We are not astrologers that we will get to know that one day we will play for India. I think the senior players like Umesh Yadav, Faiz Fazal helped me a lot as I was struggling initially. Sometimes you score and sometimes you don’t. Despite my struggling phase, senior players supported me. The atmosphere of the Vidarbha team is very friendly and at the same time, we are disciplined also. It’s like a small family,“ Jitesh said, as he is the only third player from the Vidarbha team to get a national call.  

With his adept wicketkeeping skills, Jitesh finds himself in competition with notable names like KL Rahul, Ishan Kishan, and KS Bharat for the wicketkeeper slot in the Indian team. However, he perceives this competition as an honour and privilege.

“No pressure, It’s a privilege. We all look to represent the country and there are no two ways about it. If the competition is high, obviously I will slog more. And I am honoured that my name is taken with renowned players like KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant, Ishan Kishan”, he said.

He believes that the team's needs should dictate his batting order, whether batting at number 9, 10, or 1.
 
“Jitesh Sharma ka ideal batting position ye rhega ki usko kahi pe bhi batting milna chaiye. Phir wo 9 number ho ya 10 number ho ya 1 number ho, usko bus ball khelne ko Milna chahiye... I am a team player who can bat at any given order,” he told ABP Live giggling through his answer.

“Upar batting mile ya niche mile, bus run banana hai aur team ko jitana hai”, he signed off.