RCB wicketkeeper-batsman Jitesh Sharma has surprised cricket fans by naming his all-time IPL playing XI without Virat Kohli. The announcement comes as Sharma prepares for his second season with RCB in IPL 2026.
Sharma joined RCB in 2025 for ₹11 crore during the mega auction and played a pivotal role in the franchise’s historic title win, ending an 18-year wait for the trophy. Serving primarily as a finisher, he scored 261 runs in 11 innings at a strike rate of 176.35, helping the team secure the championship. His consistent performances also earned him a spot in the Indian national squad, though he could not retain his place for the T20 World Cup 2026 after Ishan Kishan’s return.
MS Dhoni Named Captain
In his all-time IPL XI, Sharma appointed MS Dhoni as captain. In an interview with CricTracker, Sharma revealed his choices for the top order: Rohit Sharma and Adam Gilchrist as openers. Both players were part of the Deccan Chargers, who won the IPL title in 2009. Suryakumar Yadav was placed at number three.
The middle order features Jacques Kallis and AB de Villiers, followed by Dhoni as captain. All-rounders Hardik Pandya and Axar Patel were included to provide a balance of pace and spin options.
Bowling Unit
Sharma picked Varun Chakravarthy as the specialist spinner, who has been consistent since joining Kolkata Knight Riders in 2020. The pace attack features Jasprit Bumrah and Josh Hazlewood, forming a formidable bowling combination.
Jitesh Sharma’s All-Time IPL XI:
- Openers: Rohit Sharma, Adam Gilchrist (WK)
- No. 3: Suryakumar Yadav
- Middle Order: Jacques Kallis, AB de Villiers, Hardik Pandya
- Captain: MS Dhoni
- All-Rounder: Axar Patel
- Spinning Option: Varun Chakravarthy
- Pacers: Jasprit Bumrah, Josh Hazlewood
Sharma’s selection reflects a combination of consistency, experience, and match-winning ability, creating a balanced team capable of handling all IPL scenarios.
Discover more from SD NEWS agency
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.