RCB retain Jitesh Sharma despite technical flaws highlighted by Ambati Rayudu

Royal Challengers Bengaluru have retained Jitesh Sharma as their primary wicketkeeper-batter following his standout performance in the previous season, yet the franchise faces immediate questions regarding his current form. After an impressive 2025 campaign where he scored 261 runs at a strike rate of 176.35, Sharma has struggled significantly in IPL 2026, managing only 63 runs across his first seven innings. His average has plummeted to approximately 10.40, marking a stark contrast to the record-breaking unbeaten 85 he scored off 33 balls against Lucknow Super Giants last year.

The criticism intensified following a recent match against Lucknow Super Giants, where Sharma appeared unable to cope with the pressure of a high-pressure chase. In that specific innings, he scored just one run off three balls before being dismissed, a performance that contributed to RCB suffering a nine-run defeat via the DLS method. This collapse has drawn sharp commentary from former India cricketer Ambati Rayudu, who appeared on ESPNcricinfo's Timeout show to discuss the implications of Sharma's struggles.

Rayudu identified a specific technical deficiency as the primary concern, noting that Sharma appears late on short balls. He emphasised that this weakness is particularly dangerous in the IPL format, where matches move at a rapid pace and there is limited opportunity for adjustment. According to Rayudu, profound technical flaws of this nature are difficult to rectify during the tournament due to the scarcity of practice sessions, suggesting that the issue requires work in the gap between seasons rather than quick fixes.

Statistical data underscores the severity of the problem against pace bowling. In eight innings this season, Sharma has been dismissed seven times by fast bowlers, scoring merely 28 runs against them at an average of four. This vulnerability against short-pitched deliveries has become a focal point for experts and fans alike, casting doubt on his ability to contribute effectively in the middle overs where RCB often relies on his finishing capabilities.

The backlash against Sharma has also been compounded by past remarks regarding his batting position. During an appearance on AB de Villiers' YouTube channel last year, the 26-year-old had jokingly stated that he prays for the top order to collapse so he can bat and score. This comment has recently resurfaced amidst his poor form, adding to the narrative of inconsistency and further fueling the fan criticism surrounding his retention.

As the tournament progresses, the contrast between Sharma's historic 2025 contribution and his current struggles remains the defining story for Royal Challengers Bengaluru. While the franchise has opted to keep him as their first-choice wicketkeeper-batter, the comments from Rayudu suggest that without significant improvement in handling short-pitched deliveries, his role in the team may face renewed scrutiny in the coming weeks.