'IPL Prepares You Well For International Cricket' - Jitesh Sharma

Indian wicketkeeper batter Jitesh Sharma opened up about how playing in the Indian Premier League (IPL) makes things easier for young players in international cricket. He said that it allows players to understand the situation well and play freely. 

Jitesh Sharma was one of the key architects behind India’s win in the fourth T20I against Australia. The keeper-batter played a vital knock and helped his side post a winning total on the board. In the pressure situation, he stepped up big time for his side. 

Jitesh Sharma, who is new to his international career, looked unfazed by the pressure of international cricket. He played freely as if he belonged to the stage. The keeper-batter took the attack to the Australian bowlers and smashed them all over the park with his staggering hitting skills. 

Jitesh Sharma ended a vital hand for his team. He scored 35 runs off 19 balls and helped his team go past 170 runs. He batted with a strike rate of over 184 and also smashed 1 four and 3 sixes in his innings. 

Talking about his performance, Jitesh Sharma admitted that he was delighted with his innings. He also talked about how the handling pressure in IPL makes players used to international cricket. Speaking to Jio Cinema, he explained: 

“Yes, I enjoy it a lot. Yes sir (IPL prepares you well for international cricket). The atmosphere is the same. I feel the pressure is same. because of IPL, a lot of things become easier in international cricket. You have experienced such pressure, you have been in these situations before. So it becomes a bit easy. Only when you are under pressure, will you know about your character.” 

IND vs AUS: I prepare myself 100 percent when an opportunity presents – Jitesh Sharma 

Jitesh Sharma added that he was analyzing bowlers even when he was warming benches. He admitted that he’s okay with being benched and added that he prepares himself for every situation. He added: 

“I was not thinking anything. I was just analysing the bowlers. Even while sitting outside, you can have a look at the bowlers. I see it as an opportunity. There is no problem sitting on the outside. But I prepare myself 100 percent when an opportunity presents.”

Jitesh Sharma will be next seen in action when India will take on Australia in the dead rubber fifth T20I on Sunday (3rd December).