India A captain Jitesh Sharma made a surprising call in the Super Over of the Asia Cup Rising Stars 2025 semifinal against Bangladesh A. Instead of sending the in-form Vaibhav Suryavanshi, he chose to open with Ramandeep Singh, with Ashutosh Sharma lined up to bat next. The move shocked many, considering Suryavanshi had been the side’s best striker throughout the tournament.
The match at the West End Park Stadium in Doha on November 22 had gone down to the last ball. Earlier, Suryavanshi smashed 38 off just 15 deliveries while chasing 195, giving India A real hope. But after the game ended in a tie, expectations were high that he would return to the crease for the Super Over.
However, Jitesh fell first ball to Ripon Mondol, and Ashutosh walked out immediately. He too was dismissed for a golden duck, leaving India A all out in just two balls. Suryavanshi watched helplessly from the dugout, visibly frustrated and eager for a chance that never came.
Bangladesh also lost a wicket off the first ball of their chase, but a wide from Suyash Sharma sealed a dramatic win for them. The defeat left fans and experts questioning the team’s strategy and selection in the pressure moment.
After the match, Jitesh explained that Suryavanshi and Priyansh Arya were considered specialists for the powerplay, while he, Ashutosh, and Ramandeep were seen as finishers better suited for the death overs. Still, many believe the decision cost India A a place in the final.
“In the team, Vaibhav and Priyansh are masters of the powerplay, while in the death overs, Ashu and Raman can hit at will. So the Super Over lineup was a team decision, and I made the final call,” Jitesh stated.
I should have finished the game: Jitesh Sharma
Jitesh Sharma struck 33 off 22 balls, threatening to take the game away from Bangladesh A, before being removed in the 15th over. The Royal Challengers Bengaluru wicketkeeper batsman stated that he should have completed the game for his team.
“Good game of cricket and a valuable learning experience for us. I will take full responsibility— as a senior, I should have finished the game. It’s about learning, not just winning or losing. You never know, these young players may win a World Cup for India someday. In terms of talent, they’re touching the sky. It’s all about learning and gaining experience.”
Jitesh Sharma
