NEWS
Follow UsJitesh Sharma didn’t get a single game during the recently concluded three-match T20I series against Bangladesh but seeing the Indian team management backing Sanju Samson despite him failing in the first two encounters has given some sort of confidence to the 30-year-old wicketkeeper-batter from Vidarbha.
Samson was under immense pressure coming into the final T20I against Bangladesh in Hyderabad. Having managed scores of 29 and 10 in the first two T20Is, he was averaging just 19.32 after 28 innings in T20Is. The right-hander, however, responded in some style by smashing the second-fastest ton for India, slamming 111 off 47.
"While watching Sanju, seeing how he had been playing before, he looked in good touch in the nets. He is (also) a wicketkeeper, but more importantly, he is representing India. I understand how his first two innings didn’t go well, but I was hoping he would score because I’ve seen Sanju’s hard work, and he had a good IPL season too,” Jitesh told the Times of India.
"It was good to see the Indian team back Sanju and give him opportunities to play. Seeing that gives hope to those who are not in the playing XI, knowing that when their time comes, they will receive the same kind of support.”
Jitesh played the last of his nine T20Is in January. In seven innings, the right-hander has 100 runs at an average of 14.28 and a strike rate of 147.05. There are not too many quality T20 wicketkeeper-batters going around in the Indian circuit and Jitesh just wants to focus on himself.
"I don’t see myself comparing with others because all wicketkeepers focus on their own performance and growth, rather than competing against each other. Everyone has a different role, a different playing style—each of us is unique," said the aggressive batter.
"I believe it’s better to focus on myself rather than on others. We are all doing our best. When I put myself in their shoes and imagine failing, it feels bad. Everyone feels that way, so I don’t compare myself to others. Instead, I focus on my process—my batting, keeping, and fitness.”
Jitesh also talked about Indian head coach Gautam Gambhir who recently spoke about backing his players and giving them enough opportunities to prove themselves. "Those are important things to remember because anyone playing for India has earned that place. Everyone deals with pressure differently.
“Some players become comfortable quickly, while others take more time. I think these words carry meaning for anyone new to the team. They offer comfort, as every player is nervous in their early stages. If the coach gives that kind of reassurance, it allows the player to play freely, knowing they won’t be judged by one or two innings. The team knows that the player has performed well before and will receive their backing.”
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