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It’s one thing to play in a World Cup Tournament but something quite different and unique to be part of a team that ends up being a World Cup winning one. While several of India’s top notch cricketers had the pleasure of feeling that feeling- think Ishan Kishan, Sanju Samson, Arshdeep Singh and Shivam Dube (especially among the younger lot), someone who got snapped by injury prior to the world start and couldn’t make it to the squad was Jitesh Sharma.
The noted IPL cricketer who is also known for his Domestic cricket exploits opened about which prominent Indian cricketer from that World Cup winning team reached out to him. In a way that Jitesh Sharma didn’t feel left out or isolated!
Jitesh Sharma revealed that Hardik Pandya was the first person to reach out to him after he was left out of India’s squad for the T20 World Cup 2026. The 32-year-old wicketkeeper was dropped at the last moment along with Shubman Gill, as the selectors opted for the left-handed duo of Rinku Singh and Ishan Kishan instead. In the lead-up to the tournament, Jitesh had emerged as a strong contender for the first-choice wicketkeeper’s role, especially with Sanju Samson struggling to cement his place in the middle order. Jitesh had impressed in limited opportunities, averaging 31.00 and striking at 158.97 across five T20I innings in 2025.
However, the team management ultimately preferred a wicketkeeper who could bat in the top order, which went against Jitesh’s role in the side. Speaking about the snub, Jitesh shared that he received messages of support from several people, but it was Pandya’s gesture that stood out. The two share a connection through Baroda cricket, and Jitesh spoke highly of the all-rounder’s work ethic and personality.
He described Pandya as an extremely disciplined and intelligent cricketer, highlighting his rigorous routine that includes swimming, yoga, and extensive batting and bowling practice.
Jitesh Sharma also praised Pandya’s generosity and leadership off the field, noting how supportive he is toward fellow players.
Recalling their interaction, he said Pandya encouraged him to grow from the experience and come back stronger, a message that left a lasting impression during a difficult moment in his career.
