In the high culture of Vijay Hazare Trophy 2024-25 semi-finals, a brilliant moment emerged which will be etched in the memories of cricket lovers. Match between Vidarbha and Maharashtra he not only showed some impressive batting but also some impressive hitting by the wicketkeeper Jitesh Sharmabringing out the Governor of Maharashtra Ruturaj Gaikwad.
Jitesh Sharma takes a blinder to remove Ruturaj Gaikwad
The semi-final clash was crucial for both teams, with Vidarbha setting a mammoth target of 380 runs after some impressive performances by their batsmen. Dhurv Shorey and Yash Rathod each scored centuries, while the captain Karun NairAn explosive innings of 88 not out put Vidarbha in control. With a difficult total in the group, Maharashtra needed a strong start, but their hopes were dashed early in the innings.
As the third unfolded, Darshan Nalkande he threw a delivery which Gaikwad tried to pull. However, his time ran out, resulting in a high ball that seemed to be headed for the boundary. This is where Jitesh's game started. Sitting behind the stumps, he sprinted forward, leaping in the air to grab the ball with both hands, getting a tough lead for Vidarbha and sending shockwaves through the Maharashtra camp.
Also READ: Will Karun Nair play for India again? Selectors who like his heroes in Vijay Hazare Trophy 2024-25
Here is the video:
What. A. Hold 😮
Jitesh Sharma brings out the skin🔥#VijayHazareTrophy | | @IDFCFIRSTBank
Scorecard ▶️ https://t.co/AW5jmfoiE1 pic.twitter.com/Ut1wAvxnoD
– BCCI Domestic (@BCCIdomestic) January 16, 2025
Jitesh Sharma: RCB's rising star prospect
Jitesh's catch was not only a show of skill but also a testament to his popularity in Indian cricket. It was recently discovered by Royal Challengers Bengaluru at INR 11 crore for the IPL 2025 auction, Jitesh has been making headlines not only for his batting prowess but also for his exceptional wicket-keeping skills. His performance in this match further cements his position as one of the most reliable talents in Indian cricket today.
The constant struggle of Ruturaj Gaikwad
On the other hand, Gaikwad's appearance continues to appeal. The 27-year-old batsman has struggled in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, managing just seven runs in this crucial match. His inconsistency has raised questions about his place in the upcoming international matches, especially with the selectors facing him in T20I matches against. England. Gaikwad's performance has been difficult; apart from a 148-wicket stand-up innings with Services, he has failed to make much of a contribution in other matches.
These arrests can mean more than just individual dismissals; it shows Gaikwad's ongoing battle to regain form and confidence at a time when he is being scrutinized by fans and selectors alike. His recent average of 32 runs across six innings—excluding his century—gives a glimpse into his struggles.