No regrets about T20 World Cup snub, spent time with dying father: Jitesh Sharma

Speaking in the lead-up to IPL 2026, Jitesh Sharma said he was disheartened after being left out of India's T20 World Cup squad. However, the RCB wicketkeeper-batter added that he has no regrets, as the snub allowed him to spend precious time with his father, who died on February 1.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru wicketkeeper-batter Jitesh Sharma has revealed that his father died days before the start of India's T20 World Cup 2026 campaign, and that being dropped from the squad allowed him to spend the final days with him. Jitesh said he has no regrets about missing the World Cup, adding that he was fortunate to be by his father's side when he needed him the most.

Jitesh, who was India's second-choice wicketkeeper-batter even until the Asia Cup last year, was left out of the T20 World Cup squad to accommodate an in-form Ishan Kishan. Incidentally, in Jitesh's absence, India's wicketkeeper-batters Sanju Samson and Ishan Kishan played a key role in the team's historic triumph.

Speaking to PTI Videos, Jitesh said he was disappointed when he first heard the news of his omission, but later realised that his father needed his support more.

Jitesh was dropped alongside Shubman Gill as India opted to back two wicketkeepers in the top three for the T20 World Cup.

"When I heard the news, I was a little disappointed. I am also a human, so I did feel sad initially. But my family and friends supported me a lot and that sad phase became short. My father fell ill and passed away on February 1, and I was with him for seven days," Jitesh said.

"Later I realised my dad needed me more than the World Cup. After that, I have no regrets. I am not angry or anything. I am grateful to God that I could be with him and take care of him in his final days.