Punjab Kings (PBKS) experienced a disappointing season in the 2023 Indian Premier League (IPL), finishing eighth on the points table and failing to make it to the playoffs. However, amidst the team’s struggles, wicketkeeper Jitesh Sharma stood out with his impressive performances. In a recent interview, Sharma shed light on his batting strengths and approach.
Known for his destructive batting style, Sharma emphasized the importance of hitting straight down the ground and focusing on the ball rather than the bowler. His exceptional cameo of 49 runs off 27 balls in the 46th match of the IPL showcased his ability to dominate even top-class bowlers like Jofra Archer of the Mumbai Indians.
“Since childhood, we have been taught to focus on playing in the ‘V’ as the coaches have instructed. I believe that concept has been ingrained in my mind, which is why I tend to hit straight while attacking. I don’t pay attention to the bowler; instead, I focus on the delivery itself. In T20 cricket, you don’t have much time to figure out a particular bowler’s strategy. You have to trust your strengths, and for me, it’s hitting straight, whether it’s against Archer or any other bowler,” Jitesh Sharma explained in an interview with Sportskeeda.
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Additionally, Sharma displayed his proficiency against spinners by playing with the turn and maintaining his balance instead of blindly slogging. He emphasized the significance of remaining calm while attempting big shots.
“When we go for aggressive shots, we often lose our shape and our head becomes unsettled. So, when you remain calm, you are in a better position to connect with the ball. When you’re in a rush, you may not realize that you’re losing your technique while attempting big shots. Staying composed allows you to hit sixes with a lower risk percentage compared to reckless slogging, where the ball can easily go up in the air,” Jitesh Sharma elaborated.
His IPL 2023 performances have made him a candidate for T20I selection, and Jitesh reckoned that a dress rehearsal in the Caribbean less than a year before the next T20 World Cup would be beneficial for the players.@jiteshsharma_ @BCCIdomestic @BCCIhttps://t.co/NZQq7UZZ5P
— RevSportz (@RevSportz) July 4, 2023
Throughout the IPL 2023 season, PBKS utilized Sharma in various batting positions. Sometimes he batted at No. 3 or No. 4, while in other matches, he was given the role of a finisher. The right-handed batsman showcased his versatility by excelling in both roles.
Sharma mentioned that the PBKS management entrusted him with higher positions in the batting order due to the presence of finishers like Shahrukh Khan, Sam Curran, Rishi Dhawan, and Harpreet Brar. They believed that by giving him more balls to face, he could make a bigger impact on the game, considering his capability to play substantial innings.
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“Having previously opened for my state team, I was accustomed to the role. It was an opportunity for me to face more deliveries and create a greater impact with a high strike rate. This decision was based on the fact that we had Shahrukh, Sam, Brar, and Rishi Bhai to follow. The management believed that if I faced 30-40 balls instead of 10-20, I could have a more significant influence on the game,” Jitesh Sharma shared.
Despite PBKS’s overall struggles, Jitesh Sharma’s performances provided a silver lining for the team, showcasing his batting prowess and adaptability in different situations.
