‘Learning from the best in the business’ – Fans react as Jitesh Sharma says ‘I’m watching Suryakumar Yadav’s videos to improve my 360° game’

Jitesh Sharma, the Punjab Kings wicket-keeper said that he is not as skilful as the world number one batter, Suryakumar Yadav, but still, he is trying to learn as much as he can from his batting. Suryakumar has performed exceptionally well in the shortest form of the game since his debut. He has a strike rate of over 175 in 48 T20I matches he has played for India so far.

“I am just trying to observe Suryakumar Yadav. Main unke jitna skilful nahi hoon (I am not as skilful as him). But I am watching his videos on how he manipulates the field, and how he plays those risk-free shots. I am just trying to learn from his batting. Everyone has a different skill set. I am just trying to explore my game and make it 360,” Jitesh was quoted as saying in the Indian Express.

IPL has given me recognition: Jitesh Sharma

The Vidarbha player opined that he is trying to remain calmer while keeping as his inputs are valuable for the team.“I am trying to be calmer when I am keeping. As a wicketkeeper, my feedback is very important to the team. When you are keeping for so long, you can’t bring sudden changes in your skillset. You can do minor adjustments.”

The 29-year-old gave credit to the Indian Premier League (IPL) for the recognition he has received and said that he now has a lot of well-wishers. He also said that now he doesn’t have to wait in long queues to enter temples anymore.

“IPL has given me recognition. Life has changed for sure, but nothing drastic. I have started receiving more phone calls and text messages. I see it as a privilege that you are getting recognition. I have seen when you are going through a bad phase, no one wants to talk to you,” the Maharashtra-born cricketer stated.

“Getting more well-wishers is a good thing. I am now getting good bats because of my performance. I am a very spiritual guy and I love visiting different temples and because of this recognition, I get entries pretty easily,” the right-hand batter asserted.

Here’s how the fans reacted: