Sanju Samson with Jitesh Sharma during a practice session on the eve of the first T20 cricket match of a series between India and South Africa, at Barabati Stadium, in Cuttack, Odisha
| Photo Credit: PTI
On matchday eve, Suryakumar Yadav admitted that India has pretty much zeroed in on the squad heading into the title defence at next year’s T20 World Cup. Of the few things still being ironed out, however, is the wicketkeeper-batter’s role at the showpiece event.
The Indian skipper praised both Sanju Samson and Jitesh Sharma and stated that both remain in contention, with the thinktank going with the latter in the 101-run win in the first T20I in Cuttack at the Barabati Stadium on Tuesday.
Speaking after the match, Jitesh stated that the competition with Sanju is good for both him and the team, as it brings out his “A-game”.
“He (Sanju) is a great player. If you have to compete against him and play shoulder to shoulder, then I have to bring my A-game. I am very grateful that he is in the team and I’m under him,” he said.
“Frankly speaking, he is like an elder brother to me. I think that because of healthy competition, your talent comes out. I think it’s good for the team also. There is so much talent in this Indian team. We share lots of experiences with each other. He helps me a lot whenever I do keeping or batting.”
‘Thankless’ job
When asked to elaborate on his role in the squad, Jitesh said that he is aligned with the team management on what they expect from him in what he called a “thankless” job.
“I will bat in the middle or lower down the order. Whatever opportunity I get, I will try to control it as much as I can. I have full clarity from the management as to what my role will be and what expectations I have,” he said.
Hardik Pandya celebrates with Jitesh Sharma after taking the wicket of South Africa’s David Miller
| Photo Credit:
PTI
“Yes, it is difficult. But by practising day in day out, we can replicate it in practice and match. It’s a difficult job. It’s a thankless job, basically, finishing the game. But I enjoy that pressure. When I go there to bat and there’s a rush of hitting a first-ball six, I really enjoy that pressure and excitement.”
Hardik the ‘main player’
The now-fit Hardik Pandya emerged as the match-winner against South Africa, further underlining his importance to the Indian side. Jitesh said that the all-rounder brings a wealth of experience that benefits the team greatly.
“He is the main player of our team. I think we don’t look at how he performs or what. He brings a lot of experience and talent to the. When he is around, the boys feel confident. It gives you lots of experience on the field as well because he is a World Cup champion. That brings a lot to the table.”
Published – December 10, 2025 01:26 pm IST
