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'We are like brothers': Jitesh Sharma on 'competition' with Samson

By Gaurav Tripathi

Dec 10, 2025

09:32 am

What's the story

In the lead-up to the 2026 T20 World Cup, India's wicket-keeper selection has been a hot topic. For the opening match of the South Africa T20I series, Jitesh Sharma got the nod over Sanju Samson for his suitability to the finisher's role. After India's huge 101-run victory, Jitesh spoke about his healthy rivalry with Samson at a post-match press conference. Here are further details.

Rivalry respect

Jitesh values his competition with Sanju

Jitesh, who waited for his turn when Samson was a regular, spoke highly of their relationship. He said, "Frankly speaking, he is like an elder brother." He added that their competition isn't a point of friction but rather a catalyst for performance. "With healthy competition, your talent comes out. It is good for the team also," he said.

Team spirit

Jitesh's admiration for Sanju and his role

Jitesh further praised Samson, saying, "Sanju bhaiya is a great player. I have to compete with him, that is when I have to be at my best." He emphasized their shared goal of playing for India and the brotherly bond they share. "We are like brothers. We share a lot of experience with each other," he said.

Team dynamics

India's middle order under Gautam Gambhir

Under Gautam Gambhir, India's middle order has been a rotating queue. Players like Axar Patel, Shivam Dube, and even Harshit Rana have been shuffled around in T20Is since 2025. Jitesh stands out as a pure finisher, a dying breed in India's ecosystem. His performance in Hobart against Australia (22 off 13 at No. 7) was a reminder of his role as a finisher.

Upcoming challenges

Jitesh's performance in Cuttack and future prospects

In Cuttack, Jitesh scored 10 off five balls on a pitch where only Hardik Pandya shone with the bat. He also took four catches, coming close to MS Dhoni's record of five dismissals in a T20I. The next nine matches before the World Cup could be Samson's last chance to prove his adaptability. But at this point, Jitesh appears to be higher in the pecking order.