IPL 2023: Adam Gilchrist is my inspiration, says Punjab Kings wicket-keeper Jitesh Sharma

Punjab Kings wicket-keeper Jitesh Sharma has revealed that Adam Gilchrist is his inspiration. Gilchrist is well regarded as one of the best wicket-keeper batters of the modern era and he played a key role in the success of the Australian team. The left-hander also plied his trade for Punjab Kings (earlier Kings XI Punjab) in the IPL.

Meanwhile, Jitesh Sharma impressed in the previous season of the IPL as he scored 234 runs in 10 innings at an average of 29.25. However, most importantly he scored his runs at a strike rate of 163.63 as he was able to get off the blocks whenever he came out to bat.

“I have admired Adam Gilchrist since my childhood. He is my inspiration. The way he used to play, the way he used to keep, the way he showed his energy on the field, and the way he used to lift his team was just tremendous to watch. I never saw any dull moments when he was on the field,” Jitesh Sharma said in an interview with TOI.

Meanwhile, Jonny Bairstow will miss the upcoming season due to an injury. Sharma admitted that the team is going to miss Bairstow’s services and also revealed the English wicket-keeper helped him in his glovework.

“Last year Jonny and I worked a lot on my keeping. I got the opportunity to spend a lot of time with him. He gave me a lot of tips. The tips on keeping, the mental aspect of the game, how to be aware during a game, the movement while keeping during a match, what the basic rules of wicket-keeping are,” Sharma said in the interview.

“I learned a lot from him last season. It is really unfortunate that he is not in the team this year. He is someone who can make a difference in the team as a batsman, keeper, and as a person as well. He has an abundance of experience. He can see and visualise the game in a way most cricketers can’t. We are going to miss Barstow,” Sharma concluded on the matter.

Jitesh Sharma is going to hold the key for Punjab Kings not only as a wicket-keeper but also as a middle-order batter. The Vidarbha wicket-keeper will look to replicate the same performances of the previous season and he must be confident to deliver for PBKS.

Punjab Kings will begin their IPL 2023 campaign against Kolkata Knight Riders at the Punjab Cricket Association IS Bindra Stadium, Mohali on 1st April.