IPL 2022: I'm A Match-Winner, I Know What Shot To Play At What Point Of The Game - Jitesh Sharma
Punjab Kings (PBKS) batter Jitesh Sharma has proved his credentials batting in the middle-order for his franchise. In a team stacked with power-hitters, Jitesh has pushed above his weight more often than not.
He has been given the role of a finisher and the experienced 28-year-old is more than happy to do so. In 9 innings so far, Jitesh has scored 215 runs at an average of 30.71 and an impressive strike rate of 158.09.
“I am a match-winner. I am happy that I am making a difference in the match. If I can make 20 and get a win instead of scoring 60, I am happier, because that responsibility of finishing is huge and not everyone has the capability to pull it off,” Jitesh said in a conversation with ESPNcricinfo.
“I am totally chill because I have that seven-year experience. The 20-year-olds don’t have that. They may be more fearless, but knowing what shot to play at what point of the game comes with experience.
“I know my areas, how to run the game, that’s the difference. They have lots of scope to improve, which is a positive, but my positive is that I have the experience to enhance my performance,” he added.
“I have been taking every session as a chance to give 100%” – Jitesh Sharma
Jitesh revealed that the head coach Anil Kumble had hinted at the possibility of fielding him in the playing XI early on. The right-hander from Maharashtra wanted to make the most of it and trained hard for the same.
“Franchise cricket is a kind of business. It’s about who can give you profit. It doesn’t matter if it is coming from a 20-year-old boy or a 28-year-old man. If a 20-year-old is doing the same, then so be it. If a 40-year-old also makes them win, a team doesn’t bother [about age]. That’s the reality.”
“When I first came to the camp, Anil Kumble sir spoke to me. He told me I was likely for the playing XI. What I did was focus on my fitness, diet, and sleep. I have been taking every session as a chance to give 100%,” Jitesh concluded.
Also Read – SRH Qualification Scenario: How Sunrisers Hyderabad Can Qualify For IPL 2022 Playoffs?
