‘Happy that I am making a difference in the match’: PBKS batter Jitesh Sharma

It has been an intense 6 to 12 months for the wicket-keeper batter Jitesh Sharma, who has emerged as one of the cleanest strikers in the shortest format of the game.

Playing for Vidarbha in the 2021/22 edition of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, Sharma returned as the team's second-highest run-scorer with 214 runs in seven innings and hit 18 sixes (most by any player in the tournament). 

As a result of his performance in the tournament, he was snapped by the Punjab Kings (PBKS) franchise for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022. So far, the wicket-keeper has 215 runs in nine innings at a strike rate of 158.09. In his last outing, Sharma returned as the top-scorer of the team with 44 off 34 balls and again displayed his ability to hit long balls. 

In a recent interview with ESPNCricinfo, the 28-year-old reckoned that he is a match-winner and is happy to make a difference to the team with his contributions. 

"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," Sharma told ESPNCricinfo.

On being asked about the added pressure of performing well being a 28-year-old compared to the 20-year-old players, Sharma feels he has the valuable experience of seven years, knows which shot to play in certain situations, and can very well run the game. 

"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," he added. 

Further, the dashing batter revealed that the PBKS head coach Anil Kumble had informed him that he was in the frame to be part of the Playing XI in the pre-season camp. Sharma added that he is giving his 100% in every practice session to prepare well for the crucial matches of the team.

"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.