IND vs NZ: Jitesh Sharma narrates his journey to India call-up

Jitesh Sharma has been performing well in the IPL and has impressed many by the sheer weight of his performances. He has been called up to the Indian squad that his set to lock horns with the Black Caps in a three-match T20I series.

2022 was a glorious year for Jitesh Sharma as he finally got the much-needed chance he was waiting for. He made his IPL debut last season and played as a wicketkeeper-batter showcasing the ability to finish off games. He plays at a very high strike rate which is an added bonus for a side as he can slot in the lower middle order and bat alongside the tail as well.

His performances in the IPL have made him a solid option for the future. Punjab Kings took a bet on him and he made sure he repaid their faith. He was a key player for Punjab. His call-up to the Indian side for the three-match series against New Zealand seems to have given him a lot of happiness and Jitesh tells how the roller-coaster journey panned out.

He was named back-up for the three-match T20I series against Sri Lanka at the start of 2023. ‘’Chetan Sharma sir called me and said, 'You have been selected for two remaining Sri Lanka matches'. I didn't get any moment to celebrate because I had to run for Pune for the remaining matches," said Jitesh in an interview to Hindustan Times.

The Punjab Kings keeper then spoke about how things changed around him after the call-up news reached everyone. "I was not aware that I would get a call. I was not expecting a call-up. I was just preparing myself for the IPL because I was not in the Ranji Trophy squad. So I was working on my fitness.

But all of a sudden, I got the call. Obviously, I was happy and eager to get the chance. After that call, everything changed. I am getting a lot of calls from my relatives, school, and clubs but I am keeping things simple. I am preparing myself for every single opportunity." 

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