Ganesh Kendale
Sanju Samson hogged a lot of limelight for his outing in the third T20I vs Bangladesh as the right-hander, after getting starts in first two T20Is, made it big in the final game of the series and smashed a brilliant hundred. Cheering for Samson from the dugout was wicketkeeper-batter Jitesh Sharma who didn’t get a game in the series but was happy for his teammate’s 40-ball hundred.They both are competing for a spot in the Playing XI but Jitesh was happy to see Samson continue with his good touch.
“While watching Sanju, seeing how he had been playing before, he looked in good touch in the nets. He is (also) a wicketkeeper, but more importantly, he is representing India,” said Jitesh in an exclusive chat.
Samson managed scores of 29 and 10 in the first two games but Jitesh was confident that his teammate would make it big in the final outing.
“I understand how his first two innings didn’t go well, but I was hoping he would score because I’ve seen Sanju’s hard work, and he had a good IPL season too,” added Jitesh.
The Indian think tank persisted with Samson at top of the order for all three games and this gave Jitesh a lot of hope even after warming the bench.
“It was good to see the Indian team back Sanju and give him opportunities to play. Seeing that gives hope to those who are not in the playing XI, knowing that when their time comes, they will receive the same kind of support,” said Jitesh.
There are plenty of wicketkeeper-batters competing for a spot in India’s T20 squad and the next few games will give an idea of what the management is thinking for the future. Is Jitesh thinking about the competition and comparisons?
“I don’t see myself comparing with others because all wicket keepers focus on their own performance and growth, rather than competing against each other. Everyone has a different role, a different playing style—each of us is unique,” explained the aggressive batter.
He is instead focussing on improving his game – batting, keeping and fitness.
“I believe it’s better to focus on myself rather than on others. We are all doing our best. When I put myself in their shoes and imagine failing, it feels bad. Everyone feels that way, so I don’t compare myself to others. Instead, I focus on my process—my batting, keeping, and fitness,” he added.
Head coach Gautam Gambhir recently emphasised on the importance of supporting players during a recent interaction with the media. For a player like Jitesh, who is trying to cement his place in the squad, the coach’s words offer comfort and give much needed reassurance.
“Those are important things to remember because anyone playing for India has earned that place. Everyone deals with pressure differently. Some players become comfortable quickly, while others take more time. I think these words carry meaning for anyone new to the team. They offer comfort, as every player is nervous in their early stages. If the coach gives that kind of reassurance, it allows the player to play freely, knowing they won’t be judged by one or two innings. The team knows that the player has performed well before and will receive their backing,” he concluded.
