RCB’s stand-in captain Jitesh Sharma thinks their 42-run loss to Sunrisers Hyderabad could actually be a good sign. It gives them a chance to reflect and prepare for their last group game and the playoffs in the IPL. The Sunrisers, already out of the running, spoiled RCB’s chances to take the top spot from the Gujarat Titans. Their win was led by Ishan Kishan’s impressive 94 runs off just 48 balls.
RCB started strong with Virat Kohli and Phil Salt, but the middle order couldn’t keep the momentum going. Jitesh, filling in for Rajat Patidar, felt they gave up an extra 20 to 30 runs. He said they were a bit rusty and didn’t handle the Sunrisers’ attack well, even though he chose to bat first after winning the toss.
Jitesh mentioned that he hadn’t connected with Tim David, who hurt his hamstring while fielding and still came out to bat later. David struggled to run and ended up getting out after hitting a catch. Jitesh said he didn’t talk to him because he was too bummed about his own dismissal.
Despite the loss, Jitesh is staying positive. He sees it as a chance to analyze their game and believes it’s important to focus on the good things, noting that the team has been contributing well together. Sometimes losing a game can teach you a lot. We’ll take this setback and push forward, he said.