Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) vice-captain Jitesh Sharma has opened up about one of the most emotionally testing phases of his life, crediting Dinesh Karthik for helping him navigate personal grief and regain focus on cricket. The wicketkeeper-batter revealed how stepping away from the game after his father’s demise earlier this year allowed him to heal mentally and emotionally.

Recalling that difficult period, Jitesh Sharma shared how Karthik, fondly known as “DK anna,” advised him to take a step back from the sport. “DK anna asked me to take a break, put the bat away for a while and spend time with my family and friends,” Jitesh said on the RCB podcast. “That helped me reset.”

In a previous interaction with PTI, Jitesh Sharma had also spoken about how his priorities shifted during that time. He emphasized the importance of being with his father in his final days, a phase that gave him emotional closure despite the heartbreak.

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Jitesh played a vital role in the Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s historic maiden IPL title win last season, where Karthik served as a mentor and batting coach. Reflecting on that relationship, Jitesh acknowledged the impact it had on his overall growth. “A lot of the credit for my growth goes to DK ‘anna’,” he said. “He helped me understand my game better, use my strengths properly and improve mentally.”

His return to the RCB setup was equally emotional. Walking back into the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium brought a sense of belonging and renewed energy. “When I walked back into Chinnaswamy and saw the red and blue again, I felt reborn,” Jitesh Sharma admitted. “Being back in that environment made me feel like myself again.”

On the batting front, Jitesh has simplified his mindset significantly. “For me, it comes down to one thing: watch the ball,” he explained. “If you are present and watching the ball well, everything else takes care of itself.” 

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The 32-year-old now sees himself as more than just a wicketkeeper. “I do not see myself only as a wicketkeeper now,” he said. “I see myself as a finisher and a fielder as well. My job is to find a way into the team, whatever role that requires.” Despite missing out on India’s T20 World Cup squad, Jitesh remains focused on his ultimate goal. “Playing for India is still the ultimate goal,” he stated. “I felt I did my part, so I have no regrets. Now it is about staying ready and finding the next opportunity.”