“My dad needed me more than the World Cup”: Jitesh Sharma on missing T20 World Cup squad

Indian cricketer Jitesh Sharma recently spoke about missing out on India’s title-winning squad for the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026. However, that disappointment soon faded as he faced a much more personal loss. On February 1, his father and strongest support system, Mohan Sharma, passed away after a brief illness.

"When I got the news of my non-selection, I was a little bit disheartened. I am also a human. I can feel sad and bad. But later on, as time went by, the sad time becomes short," Jitesh told PTI during an exclusive interview.



Soon after the news of his exclusion, Jitesh had to deal with his father’s deteriorating health. "But later on, my dad got ill. And he passed away on 1st of Feb. So, I was with him for seven days. Afterward, I got to know that my dad needed me more than the World Cup. After that, I didn't have any sad feeling, any regret or anything for anyone or for myself also. I am not angry or anything," he said.

He added, "I was grateful that God gave me the opportunity to stay with my dad for seven days. So, I was able to take care of him. And I enjoyed watching the World Cup on TV at home. It's a very different feeling. It gives you lots of pressure rather than playing. And I was very happy for the boys."

Following his father’s death, Jitesh now carries the responsibilities of being the eldest son in the family.

"I can't forget that thing and I don't want to forget that thing because he is not there anymore. When you lose your dad, after a few days you get to know that you are now responsible for taking decisions in your family as the elder son.

"And that's it - to take care of your mother, brother and family. So, I'm someone who can't show my feelings to them and can't be weak in front of them because they are looking at me while playing cricket also. And I have to accept it," Jitesh said while reflecting on how life sometimes throws unexpected challenges.

[With PTI inputs]