India’s training camp in Nagpur has been buzzing with energy and quiet confidence ahead of the first T20I against New Zealand on Wednesday, as the Men in Blue settled into their hotel for the series opener. With the five-match contest marking India’s final assignment before the big global event, the focus is firmly on preparation, momentum, and team bonding.

Amid the build-up, wicketkeeper-batter Jitesh Sharma made a special appearance to meet the Indian squad in his hometown of Nagpur. Although he was dropped from the T20I squad for the New Zealand series, Jitesh’s visit turned into an emotional moment that quickly caught fans’ attention on social media.

The Amravati-born cricketer was seen warmly greeting his former Rajasthan Royals teammate Sanju Samson, with the duo sharing a heartfelt hug and a light moment filled with laughter. Jitesh also spent time interacting with captain Suryakumar Yadav and other members of the squad, underlining the strong personal bonds within the Indian setup.

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The relaxed atmosphere extended beyond the training ground as several key players, including Suryakumar Yadav, Sanju Samson, Ishan Kishan, Rinku Singh, and Ravi Bishnoi, enjoyed a short jungle safari at the Pench Tiger Reserve. The outing offered a welcome mental break and highlighted the team’s effort to balance intensity with off-field downtime ahead of a demanding series.

Jitesh Sharma came to visit Team India in Nagpur, and Sanju Samson went up and hugged him 🫂❤️

Jitesh was snubbed from the squad, and no one understands that feeling better than Sanju, who has gone through such phases so many times himself pic.twitter.com/VJfXZONTE4

— Sanju Samson Fans Page (@SanjuSamsonFP) January 19, 2026

India will be keen to respond strongly after suffering a 2-1 ODI series defeat to New Zealand at home. The opening T20I at the Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium in Jamtha presents an immediate opportunity to reset the narrative and build momentum in the shortest format.

Earlier this month, Jitesh Sharma addressed his omission from the T20 squad and the T20 World Cup 2026 plans in an exclusive conversation. He revealed that he learned about his exclusion only after the squad announcement but accepted the selectors’ explanation after further discussions.

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“I wasn’t aware of my omission until the squad was announced. Later, after speaking with the selectors and coaches, I understood their reasoning and felt it was fair,” Jitesh Sharma said.

Despite limited chances, Jitesh has made an impact in India colours, featuring in 16 T20Is and scoring 162 runs at a strike rate of 151.4, primarily as a finisher. As India gear up for a crucial phase, the blend of competition, camaraderie, and clarity remains central to their approach.