In a move that could reignite his red-ball aspirations, Jitesh Sharma, the dynamic wicketkeeper-batter for RCB (Royal Challengers Bengaluru) and Team India, is set to represent Baroda in the upcoming domestic season. After years of limited exposure in first-class cricket, the 31-year-old is hoping to turn a new leaf in his career.
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Jitesh Sharma’s Switch from Vidarbha to Baroda: What You Need to Know
After nearly a decade of playing for Vidarbha, Jitesh Sharma has made a bold choice. The RCB and India T20I cricketer, who played second fiddle in the Ranji setup last season, will now don Baroda colours in 2025.
Despite being part of the Vidarbha white-ball setup led by Karun Nair, Sharma did not feature in a single match in the 2024–25 Ranji Trophy. The wicketkeeping duties were firmly with Akshay Wadkar, the team’s captain and first-choice glovesman.
The move to Baroda is more than just a transfer—it’s a reunion of sorts. Jitesh’s close rapport with Baroda skipper Krunal Pandya, who was also his teammate at RCB during their historic maiden IPL title win earlier this year, reportedly played a key role in the transition.
Why Baroda, and Why Now?
For a player who made his first-class debut back in the 2015-16 season, Jitesh has had a puzzlingly limited red-ball career. In 10 seasons, he has featured in just 18 matches, scoring at an average of 24.48 with four half-centuries. His last appearance in the format came over 18 months ago.
However, his recent form in white-ball cricket, especially in the IPL and T20Is, makes this a calculated career reboot rather than a desperate switch.
RCB Connection: The IPL Spark That Revived Jitesh’s Career
Jitesh Sharma’s IPL 2025 campaign with RCB was nothing short of a breakthrough. Playing as a finisher, he delivered under pressure—none more memorable than his unbeaten 85 against Lucknow Super Giants in a must-win game. That innings not only helped RCB secure a top-two finish but also demonstrated his temperament on big occasions.
Notably, Jitesh was the vice-captain to Rajat Patidar and even led the side in Patidar’s absence during the latter stages of the tournament. “The shift to Baroda could give Jitesh a renewed opportunity to cement his place as a regular in first-class cricket,” a source close to the development stated.
From IPL Finisher to Red-Ball Regular?
While Jitesh has earned nine T20I caps since debuting at the Asian Games 2023, he knows longevity in Indian cricket demands versatility across formats. The move to Baroda could provide the platform to build his red-ball resume and possibly earn a shot at India A tours or Duleep Trophy representation. The 31-year-old did not feature in any matches during the 2024-25 Ranji Trophy, playing second fiddle to captain and first-choice wicketkeeper Akshay Wadkar.
Swapnil Singh’s Domestic Journey Takes a New Turn
Jitesh isn’t the only RCB cricketer making moves this off-season. All-rounder Swapnil Singh, who was RCB’s only RTM (Right to Match) pick in the 2025 IPL auction, is set to represent Tripura.
Although he didn’t play a single game for RCB, Swapnil impressed with 18 wickets in five matches for Uttarakhand during the 2024–25 Ranji Trophy. His TNPL 2025 numbers—3 wickets and 85 runs in eight games—were modest but reflect his consistent presence in India’s domestic scene.
Jitesh Sharma’s First-Class Career Summary
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| First-Class Matches | 18 |
| Runs Scored | 661 |
| Batting Average | 24.48 |
| Half-Centuries | 4 |
| First-Class Debut | 2015-16 Season |
| Last First-Class Match | 18+ months ago |
FAQs
Why did Jitesh Sharma leave Vidarbha?
Jitesh wasn’t getting enough first-class game time, having not played in the 2024-25 Ranji season. His move to Baroda offers a fresh start.
What role did RCB and Krunal Pandya play in the move?
Krunal Pandya, Jitesh’s RCB teammate and Baroda captain, reportedly played a major role in facilitating the transfer.
How has Jitesh Sharma performed in first-class cricket?
He has a modest average of 24.48 in 18 matches with four fifties. His last appearance was nearly two years ago.
What are Jitesh Sharma’s achievements in the IPL 2025 season?
He scored a match-winning 85* and served as RCB’s vice-captain, later captaining the side during Patidar’s injury.
Who is Swapnil Singh and where is he moving?
Swapnil Singh, another RCB player, is moving from Uttarakhand to Tripura for better domestic opportunities.
