In an atmosphere of high stakes Vijay Hazare Trophy 2024-25 semi-final, there was a moment of brilliance that will be etched in the memory of cricket lovers. A match between Vidarbha and Maharashtra he not only displayed impressive batting but also highlighted a sensational catch by the keeper Jitesh Sharmadismissing the Maharashtra skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad.
Jitesh Sharma grabs a blinder to dismiss Ruturaj Gaikwad
The semi-final clash was crucial for both the teams, with Vidarbha setting a formidable target of 380 runs after a stellar performance from their batsmen. Dhurv Shorey and Yash Rathod each scored a century while the captain Karun NairHis explosive knock of an unbeaten 88 took Vidarbha to a commanding position. With such a challenging total on the board, Maharashtra needed a solid start but their hopes were dashed early in the innings.
As the third over unfolded, Darshan of Nalkanda bowled a delivery which Gaikwad tried to pull. However, his timing was off, resulting in a high ball that seemed destined for the boundary. This is where Jitesh’s athleticism came to the fore. Set behind the stumps, he charged forward, leaping into the air to grab the ball with both hands, securing a critical wicket for Vidarbha and sending shockwaves through the Maharashtra camp.
READ ALSO: Will Karun Nair play for India again? Selectors delighted with his heroics at Vijay Hazare Trophy 2024-25
Here is the video:
What. A. Catch 😮
Jitesh Sharma takes off his blindness 🔥#VijayHazareTrophy | @IDFCFIRSTBank
Results table ▶️ https://t.co/AW5jmfoiE1 pic.twitter.com/Ut1wAvxnoD
— BCCI Domestic (@BCCIdomestic) January 16, 2025
Jitesh Sharma: A rising star prospect for RCB
Jitesh’s catch was not only a display of skill but also a testament to his growing reputation in Indian cricket. After he bought it recently Royal Challengers Bengaluru for INR 11 crore in the IPL 2025 auction, Jitesh has been making headlines not only for his batting prowess but also for his exceptional wicket-keeping abilities. His performance in this match further cements his status as one of the most promising talents in Indian cricket today.
Ruturaj Gaikwad’s constant struggles
On the other hand, Gaikwad’s form remains a concern. The 27-year-old batsman struggled during the Vijay Hazare Trophy, managing just seven runs in this crucial match. His inconsistency has raised questions about his place in the upcoming internationals, particularly with the selectors overlooking him for the T20I series against England. Gaikwad’s performance was unsatisfactory; apart from a remarkable innings of 148 not out against Services, he failed to make a significant contribution in other matches.
This catch may symbolize more than just a single release; reflects Gaikwad’s ongoing battle to regain form and confidence at a time when he is under scrutiny from fans and selectors alike. His current average of 32 runs across six innings—excluding his century—paints a clear picture of his struggles.
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