Jitesh Sharma has opened up about the support he received after being left out of India’s squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, revealing that Hardik Pandya was the first to reach out to him during a difficult phase. Despite being in contention as a backup wicketkeeper-batter, Jitesh missed out as selectors backed Sanju Samson and recalled Ishan Kishan. While Samson had already established himself as the first-choice option, Ishan’s strong domestic performances—leading Jharkhand to a title in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy—helped him secure a comeback.

Reflecting on the moment, Jitesh Sharma said, “Hardik bhai was the first one who messaged me when I wasn’t picked for the World Cup.” He added, “He told me to keep growing as a person and as a cricketer.”

Jitesh also revealed that several teammates stood by him during that phase, including Arshdeep Singh, Avesh Khan, and Shivam Dube, highlighting the strong camaraderie within the Indian dressing room.

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Speaking further about Hardik Sharma, Jitesh Sharma praised his generous and supportive nature off the field. “Hardik Pandya is the most helpful guy I’ve met,” he said, adding that the all-rounder often goes out of his way to help young cricketers, even gifting bats without being asked.

Jitesh, who has also interacted closely with Krunal Pandya during his time in Baroda cricket, spoke highly of the elder Pandya’s cricketing intelligence. He pointed out Krunal’s unique ability to unsettle batters with unconventional tactics.

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“Have you ever seen a spinner bowl a bouncer? He’s the first who does that regularly,” Jitesh Sharma remarked. He added, “That creates doubt in a batter’s mind, and that’s his strength.”

While missing out on the World Cup was a setback, Jitesh’s reflections underline the importance of support systems and resilience in a cricketer’s journey.