In the ever-evolving landscape of modern T20 cricket, adaptability and versatility are the key traits that define the finest batters. One cricketer who’s embracing this challenge head-on is Jitesh Sharma, the explosive wicketkeeper-batter, who has his sights set on becoming a true 360-degree player — and he’s got the perfect mentor to guide him on this journey: Dinesh Karthik.
New Chapter with RCB
After proving his prowess with Punjab Kings, Jitesh Sharma was picked up by Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) for the 2025 IPL season. The move marked a turning point for the Vidarbha cricketer, as he not only joined a team with a powerful batting lineup but also gained access to the vast experience and tactical acumen of Dinesh Karthik — one of the sharpest minds in the game and a master of finishing in T20 cricket.
Karthik, who is part of the RCB support staff post-retirement, has transitioned smoothly into a mentorship role. His wealth of experience, especially in playing unconventional shots and manipulating field placements, is proving invaluable for younger players like Jitesh.
Aiming for All-Around Strokeplay
In a recent interview, Jitesh revealed that working under Karthik has shifted his approach to T20 batting. “DK bhai has helped me understand the importance of shot selection and range,” said Jitesh. “In modern cricket, you can’t survive just playing traditional strokes. You have to access all parts of the field — behind square, over third man, over covers, scoop shots — and DK bhai is the best at teaching that mindset.”
Jitesh is known for his fearless strokeplay, often taking down spinners with aggressive intent. But he now wants to add finesse and unpredictability to his game. “I’ve always loved to hit straight and over the leg side, but I’m working on scoops, reverse paddles, and using the crease better. The goal is to become a 360-degree batter like AB de Villiers or Suryakumar Yadav,” he added.
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Wicketkeeping Inspiration Too
Besides his batting, Jitesh is also polishing his wicketkeeping under the RCB setup. “DK bhai is someone I’ve admired not just for his batting but also for his keeping. His game awareness is next level. I ask him a lot about positioning, reading the batter’s mind, and staying alert even when things are quiet.”
Team Player with Big Aspirations
While Jitesh has already made a mark in domestic cricket and had a brief stint in Team India’s T20 setup, he knows consistency and adaptability are the keys to a long career. With RCB eyeing their maiden IPL title and building a strong core of Indian talent, Jitesh’s transformation into a dynamic middle-order weapon could be a game-changer.
“RCB has given me the platform and support system. With DK bhai’s mentorship, I want to become the kind of player who can finish games, adapt to any situation, and take responsibility. That’s the goal this season,” Jitesh concluded.
As the IPL 2025 season progresses, all eyes will be on how this promising young talent reshapes his game and whether he can emerge as RCB’s next big match-winner — with shades of Karthik’s brilliance in his style.