IPL 2025: Dinesh Karthik hails Jitesh Sharma after RCB's unbelievable win

Jitesh Sharma lit up the Ekana Cricket Stadium on Tuesday, May 28, with a breathtaking display of power-hitting, leading Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) to a crucial victory over Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in a high-scoring thriller. His knock not only secured the win but also left the cricket fraternity in awe of his composure and clean striking under pressure. Chasing a daunting target of 228, RCB found themselves in a tricky position after the dismissal of Virat Kohli in the 12th over with the scoreboard reading 123/4. With 105 runs still needed off 52 balls, the game was evenly poised. However, Jitesh had other plans. Wasting no time to settle in, he launched into an all-out assault on the LSG bowlers, sending deliveries sailing to all parts of the ground.

IPL 2025: Jitesh Sharma's match-winning knock savours RCB

His aggressive intent from the get-go shifted the momentum in RCB's favor. Jitesh remained unbeaten on a sensational 85 off just 33 balls, an innings laced with eight boundaries and six towering sixes. His knock not only steadied RCB’s chase but completely turned the game around. RCB sealed the win with six wickets in hand and eight balls to spare, with Jitesh rightfully earning accolades for one of the most impactful innings of IPL 2025.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s batting coach and mentor, Dinesh Karthik, heaped praise on Jitesh Sharma after his match-winning performance against the Lucknow Super Giants. Karthik described Jitesh as a truly special cricketer, highlighting the tremendous effort and dedication he has shown during the off-season. According to Karthik, Jitesh has been working hard not only on his technique but also on his mental approach, particularly focusing on staying calm and composed while chasing big targets — a vital skill in high-pressure situations.

Karthik emphasized that Jitesh’s ability to maintain his composure under pressure has been a key factor in his recent success. He mentioned how the youngster backed his skills confidently during the crucial IPL Qualifier 1 fixture, stepping up exactly when the team needed him the most. The calm and focused approach allowed Jitesh to play with clarity and aggression, which ultimately guided RCB to a well-earned victory.

"Jitesh Sharma is a special cricketer. He worked really hard in the off-season. He's put in a lot of work to understand how to chase big totals and how to stay calm in those kinds of situations," stated RCB batting coach and mentor Dinesh Karthik. 

"Today was a great example of what happens when you back your skills and, more importantly, trust the shots you know. It's also about delivering in big moments," he added.

Dinesh Karthik expressed immense pride in Jitesh Sharma’s recent performance, calling it a remarkable display of responsibility and composure under pressure. Karthik highlighted how encouraging it was to witness Jitesh step up and guide Royal Challengers Bengaluru to one of the highest successful run-chases in IPL history. This innings was particularly special for Jitesh as it marked his maiden half-century in the Indian Premier League, achieved in his 46th IPL innings — a testament to his perseverance and growth as a player.

Karthik praised Jitesh’s ability to stay calm and focused during the high-stakes chase, pointing out that the 31-year-old’s knock was not just about scoring runs but about timing his aggression perfectly to ensure victory for his team. The innings featured a blend of powerful hitting and smart cricketing decisions, which ultimately allowed RCB to reach the target comfortably with six wickets in hand and eight balls to spare. This win was crucial, as it secured RCB’s spot in the Qualifier 1 stage of the IPL 2025 playoffs, setting the stage for an exciting encounter ahead.

Looking forward, RCB will now face the Punjab Kings in Qualifier 1, scheduled to take place at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur on Thursday, May 29. This match promises to be a thrilling contest, with both teams eager to secure a place in the IPL final. Fans will be watching closely to see if Jitesh can continue his brilliant form and help RCB chase their long-awaited maiden IPL title.

"Sometimes, as a player and a leader, you need your senior players to step up. He's played a lot of cameos, but today it was great to see him get that fifty-and more importantly, stay not out and take us across the line," Karthik added.