Jitesh Sharma Opens Up: “DK Bhai Made Me Believe I Could Play 360° Shots” – A Tale of Trust, Mentorship, and Fearless Cricket

Published on: April 8, 2025

In a game where confidence can make or break a player, rising Indian wicketkeeper-batter Jitesh Sharma has shared a heartfelt story about how a single conversation with veteran cricketer Dinesh Karthik changed the trajectory of his career. Speaking with rare vulnerability, Jitesh credited DK not just for tactical advice, but for gifting him belief—something that helped him evolve from a domestic prospect into one of India’s most fearless 360-degree hitters.

“When I met DK bhai for the first time, he gave me that confidence and said, ‘You can play 360 shots – you just need to believe in yourself.’ I give all my trust to him and I said to him, ‘Whatever you say, I will follow blindly.’”

These were the words that sparked a transformation.

The Moment That Changed Everything

It’s not every day that a young cricketer gets one-on-one mentorship from someone of Dinesh Karthik’s stature. With a career spanning two decades, multiple comebacks, and unforgettable clutch performances, DK is not just a player — he’s a story of reinvention. For Jitesh Sharma, meeting DK wasn’t just an opportunity; it was fate.

“I was trying shots in the nets, but in matches, I would often hesitate,” Jitesh recalled. “DK bhai looked at me and said, ‘You already have the shots — you just need to back yourself when the lights are on and the crowd is roaring. Don’t be afraid to take that risk.’”

That advice hit home. It wasn’t just about technique — it was about mindset. DK didn’t just analyze Jitesh’s batting; he understood his psychology.

From Practice Nets to Match Pressure

Jitesh elaborated on a crucial aspect that many fans overlook — the difference between practicing shots and executing them in real-game scenarios.

“It’s easy to play those shots in practice sessions, but to execute them in a match is a big thing. That’s where belief matters. And DK bhai gave me that.”

In a sport where pressure can crumble even seasoned players, converting net brilliance into match-winning performances requires immense composure. According to Jitesh, it was DK’s unwavering confidence in him that allowed him to unlock his true potential on the biggest stages.

The Rise of Jitesh Sharma: A New-Age Finisher

Today, Jitesh Sharma is being hailed as part of a new breed of Indian cricketers — aggressive, innovative, and unafraid to take risks. Whether it’s lofting bowlers over fine leg, reverse scooping a pacer, or dancing down the track to spinners, Jitesh plays with a style reminiscent of AB de Villiers, Suryakumar Yadav, and of course, DK himself.

His ability to bat in the lower-middle order and finish games under pressure has not gone unnoticed. In domestic tournaments, IPL games, and now with a growing presence on the international stage, he’s proving to be a match-winner.

And behind the swagger and fearless shots lies the foundation of one man’s belief in another.

Dinesh Karthik: The Mentor Behind the Scenes

Dinesh Karthik may be nearing the twilight of his playing career, but his influence continues to ripple across Indian cricket. Whether it’s his articulate commentary, his mentorship in IPL setups, or his personal guidance to young players like Jitesh, DK is leaving behind a legacy that goes far beyond his statistics.

Jitesh is just one of many cricketers who have been impacted by DK’s wisdom and mentorship. What sets this story apart is the depth of trust that developed instantly.

“I said to him, ‘Whatever you say, I will follow blindly.’ That belief came from the way he spoke to me. It wasn’t just words — it was conviction,” Jitesh added.

What This Means for Indian Cricket

India’s bench strength has never looked stronger, especially in white-ball cricket. Players like Jitesh Sharma, who bring flair, hunger, and adaptability, represent the future. And as T20 cricket continues to evolve, the need for versatile players who can innovate under pressure is greater than ever.

With IPL franchises showing increasing faith in young finishers and Team India constantly on the lookout for impact players, Jitesh’s rise is both timely and inspiring.

He isn’t just playing cricket — he’s rewriting how young players break through mental barriers.

Final Thoughts: A Story of Trust and Transformation

In an era dominated by data, coaching staff, and endless video analysis, sometimes, all a player needs is a moment — a few words from someone who believes in them. For Jitesh Sharma, that someone was Dinesh Karthik.

The story is simple but powerful: a young batter with immense potential meets a mentor who sees greatness in him and tells him to trust himself. That trust, once ignited, turns into confidence. And that confidence becomes performance.