Who is Jitesh Sharma? - All you need to know about Punjab Kings' dashing wicketkeeper-batter

Jitesh Sharma impressed one and all with his impressive show on his IPL debut. Playing for Punjab Kings, the wicketkeeper-batter first made a 17-ball 26 before showcasing his sharp glovework. Notably, PBKS bought Jitesh for INR 20 lakh in the IPL 2022 mega auction. The wicketkeeper-batter was with the Mumbai Indians squad in IPL 2016 but couldn’t make his debut for the franchise. However, he has been a regular feature for Vidarbha in domestic cricket.

It must be noted that Jitesh smashed as many as three sixes on his IPL debut. He then went on to take a stunning catch to dismiss his counterpart, MS Dhoni. As the wicketkeeper-batter put up a match-winning show on his IPL debut, he would like to put up several stellar performances throughout the season.

Notably, the 23-year-old had a terrific outing in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2022 season where he amassed 214 runs in eight games at an average of 53.50. He had a strike rate of 235.16 which certainly would have impressed a lot and his six-hitting capabilities are spoken about as well. His stellar performances helped Vidarbha reach the semi-finals of the tournament but were unfortunate to lose it to the Karnataka side.

In fact, the innings against Sikkim in the Round five plate was something outstanding from the 28-year-old Jitesh as he smacked 54 in just 20 balls to take his side to a total above 200. He managed to clear the rope on six occasions and also added two boundaries to demolish the bowling attack.

Jitesh Sharma’s numbers in domestic cricket

Jitesh’s overall numbers in the T20 format is impressive as well with 1355 runs in 55 games at an average of 28.22 and a staggering strike rate of 142.03. He has scored eight fifties and one century in his T20 career and is a prolific six-hitter as well. With the Mohali-based team looking for players to close out innings, he will definitely be one among the category and should look to make the most if he gets an opportunity.

Meanwhile, Punjab Kings defeated CSK by 54 runs to record their victory of the season. Liam Livingstone was the stand-out performer in the game as he slammed a 32-ball 60 alongside taking a couple of wickets.