"It was good to see the Indian team back Sanju and give him opportunities to play" - Jitesh Sharma elated with management's long rope policy 

India wicketkeeper Jitesh Sharma spoke highly in favor of the team management's trust in players, giving them enough opportunities to prove themselves, despite the intense competition for the limited slots. The Vidarbha player was selected for the recently concluded three-match T20I series against Bangladesh but did not make a single appearance.

Sanju Samson kept wickets in the series and opened the innings for India. He could not make most of the chance initially, perishing after brisk starts, but made amends in the series finale. Samson slammed a brilliant hundred in Hyderabad as India completed a 3-0 whitewash.

Samson came into the series after successive ducks against Sri Lanka and needed runs to back his case.

Jitesh Sharma noted how Samson's case is an inspiration and a hope for the players on the bench, eagerly waiting for their run of games in the starting XI.

"I understand how his first two innings didn’t go well, but I was hoping he would score because I’ve seen Sanju’s hard work, and he had a good IPL season too. It was good to see the Indian team back Sanju and give him opportunities to play. Seeing that gives hope to those who are not in the playing XI, knowing that when their time comes, they will receive the same kind of support," Jitesh Sharma told the Times of India.

Jitesh also spoke about not brooding over the intense competition among the glovesmen for a place in the playing XI.

"I don’t see myself comparing with others because all wicket keepers focus on their own performance and growth, rather than competing against each other. Everyone has a different role, a different playing style—each of us is unique," he remarked

Team India are spoilt for choices when it comes to the wicketkeeping department. They have Rishabh Pant as a primary option, while the likes of Sanju Samson and Jitesh Sharma have performed well and are considered reliable backups or perhaps even more. If that was not enough, candidates like Ishan Kishan and Dhruv Jurel are waiting on the sidelines.

"They offer comfort, as every player is nervous in their early stage" - Jitesh Sharma on Gambhir and management's assurance

Team India have placed great importance on their bench strength, and with each format likely to sport different sides, the need for players is constant. Talented players are coming through the pipeline, and the management is considering all methods to find the best combination.

With the road to the 2026 T20 World Cup commencing under Suryakumar Yadav and Gautam Gambhir, there has been an emphasis on cultivating emerging talent and giving all players a fair run before judging them.

"Those are important things to remember because anyone playing for India has earned that place. Everyone deals with pressure differently. Some players become comfortable quickly, while others take more time. I think these words carry meaning for anyone new to the team," Jitesh said in the same interview.

"They offer comfort, as every player is nervous in their early stages. If the coach gives that kind of reassurance, it allows the player to play freely, knowing they won’t be judged by one or two innings. The team knows that the player has performed well before and will receive their backing," he concluded.

Jitesh is likely to retain his place in the Indian squad for the upcoming tour of South Africa, where they are scheduled to play four T20Is.