The last time explosive keeper-batter Jitesh Sharma played for India in T20Is, he did not have the best of runs. In 9 matches, he scored 100 runs, at an average of 14. He was then ousted from the team in Jan of 2024. But then, he is certainly in contention for a spot in India’s Asia Cup 2025 squad, after an epic IPL 2025.
Dhruv Jurel vs Jitesh Sharma in IPL 2025
In the winning campaign of the team, he went on to score 261 runs, with a best of 85, and an average of 37. That was also his maiden fifty in the tournament. What added to his stronger case was, RCB went on to lift the title, and he was part of the leadership group, along with skipper Rajat Patidar and Virat Kohli.
But between him and an India comeback is, RR’s Dhruv Jurel, who not only had his best season too, but is definitely looked at, as the future of the team. Yes, there were doubts over his T20 abilities, but IPL this year have dispelled all of those. In 14 matches, he scored 333 runs at an average of 37, including two fifties, and a strike-rate of 156.
No Clear Pick, But Jurel Touch Ahead
He hit 22 sixes and as many fours in his campaign, to show, he is a batter who can bat explosively as well. So, who really makes it between Jitesh Sharma and Dhruv Jurel? Well, it is not really a straight pick. Age and looking at future, Jurel might just pip Jitesh, but his credentials aren’t bad either.
Another factor, that might just seal the deal for Jurel is, he has been with the Indian team consistently since 2024.. so he would be a lot more confident coming into the setup again. As for Jitesh, the pressure of performance could maybe hamper his form. But again, nothing can be taken away from the way he batted this year for RCB.
In the end, it all boils down to what the team management, Gautam Gambhir and Ajit Agarkar think. The India squad announcement is scheduled to take place on August 19-20, where these things will be clarified.
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