India’s search for the right wicketkeeper ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 gained fresh momentum as Jitesh Sharma delivered a composed all-round performance in the first T20I against South Africa cricket team at Cuttack on Tuesday.
In a dominant 101-run victory, Jitesh not only chipped in with a brisk late-order cameo but also impressed behind the stumps, claiming four sharp catches during South Africa’s innings. The effort left him just one catch short of equalling an iconic Indian record held by MS Dhoni.
One catch short of a legendary milestone
Jitesh narrowly missed becoming only the second Indian men’s wicketkeeper to take five catches in a T20I match — a feat Dhoni achieved against England in Bristol back in 2018. His four-catch performance now places him in elite company, alongside multiple Dhoni efforts from past World Cups and Asia Cup encounters.
Most catches by an India wicketkeeper in a men’s T20I innings:
- MS Dhoni – 5 vs England (Bristol, 2018)
- MS Dhoni – 4 vs Afghanistan (St Lucia, 2010)
- MS Dhoni – 4 vs Pakistan (Colombo, 2012)
- Jitesh Sharma – 4 vs South Africa (Cuttack, 2025)
For Jitesh, the numbers reflect a growing maturity in his game, especially as India fine-tunes combinations ahead of the global showpiece.
A natural finisher growing in confidence
Much like Dhoni during his prime, Jitesh has built a reputation as a fearless finisher. His ability to absorb pressure and close out matches has already been evident in the Indian Premier League, where he impressed for Punjab Kings and more recently Royal Challengers Bengaluru.
The 32-year-old also played a key role in India’s successful run chase against Australia in Hobart last month, strengthening his case as the first-choice keeper-batter heading into the World Cup, which India will co-host with Sri Lanka from February 7.
Speaking after the match, Jitesh made it clear that finishing games is a responsibility he relishes.
“I think that’s my bread and butter — finishing games,” he said.
“It’s a difficult and sometimes thankless job, but I enjoy the pressure. Going in for the last five or six overs excites me.”
Healthy competition with Sanju Samson
Jitesh’s rise does, however, intensify competition for the wicketkeeper’s slot, potentially putting Sanju Samson under pressure despite his solid performances earlier this year, including at the Asia Cup.
Both players are part of India’s squad for the ongoing South Africa series, and Jitesh was quick to stress that the rivalry remains friendly and beneficial for the team.
“Sanju bhaiya is like an elder brother to me,” Jitesh said.
“Healthy competition brings out your best. We both want to play for India, and we share a lot of experiences. He helps me a lot.”
India’s squad and road ahead
India’s T20I squad for the South Africa series features a strong mix of experience and youth, led by Suryakumar Yadav, with Shubman Gill as vice-captain.
With four matches still to play in the series, Jitesh Sharma will have further opportunities to strengthen his claim. If his form with both bat and gloves continues, India may well have found their long-term finisher — and wicketkeeper — for the T20 World Cup, even if MS Dhoni’s record remains just out of reach for now.
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