Jitesh Sharma Embraces Finisher Role: Redefining Success and Team Focus at RCB
Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s designated finisher Jitesh Sharma has adapted to his role down the order, redefining the value of his contributions. Batting mostly at No. 6 in IPL 2025, Jitesh’s impactful innings include a quickfire 40 off 19 balls in RCB’s recent 12-run win over Mumbai Indians. Speaking on RCB Bold Diaries, the 31-year-old revealed how finishing has changed his perspective on scoring. “I was an opener earlier and used to score fifties and centuries. Now, batting at No. 6 or 7, I haven’t scored a fifty but scores of 30s or 40s feel like fifties,” he said. He added that quickfire 60–70 runs in 30 balls can be as valuable as a hundred, emphasizing his focus on team victories over personal milestones.
As a wicketkeeper, Jitesh believes he gains an edge by studying the pitch and opposition batsmen closely. “I stay involved for 240 balls and can read the game quickly, which helps me understand the wicket and the batters better,” he explained.
RCB mentor Dinesh Karthik praised Jitesh’s hunger to learn and openness to new ideas. “He calls me Anna and is willing to try anything I suggest. Working with him, I believe we can unlock his full potential in the coming years,” Karthik said.