In a dramatic bidding war at the IPL 2025 mega auction, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) has secured the services of wicketkeeper-batter Jitesh Sharma for a massive INR 11 crore.
The explosive right-handed batter has been roped in to bolster RCB’s lower-middle order and fill the finisher’s role previously held by Dinesh Karthik.
Jitesh entered the auction with a base price of INR 1 crore, sparking immediate interest. Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) opened the bidding and rapidly pushed the price past INR 3 crore. LSG exited at INR 4.40 crore, paving the way for RCB to join the race with a bid of INR 4.60 crore.
Delhi Capitals (DC) soon entered the fray, driving the price up to INR 4.80 crore. At INR 5.75 crore Punjab Kings (PBKS) Jitesh’s previous team, used their Right to Match (RTM) card to take him back.
Undeterred, RCB pushed the price to an astonishing INR 11 crore, leaving PBKS unable to respond. This hefty investment reflects Jitesh’s rising reputation as a reliable finisher and power-hitter in the shortest format of the game.
IPL Mega Auction 2025: Jitesh Sharma’s IPL Career
Jitesh was a part of the Mumbai Indians team in 2021 but could not get a chance. He then signed for Punjab Kings making his debut in 2022. He was signed by PBKS for Rs 20 lakh in the 2022 auction. His fearless batting and ability to finish games with impactful cameos earned him recognition.
Over 40 IPL matches through three campaigns, Jitesh has scored 730 runs at a strike rate of over 135. While his average of 22.81 may not appear extraordinary, his consistency in playing pressure innings set him apart.
He also has secured a place in the Indian national team with his showings. In October 2023, Jitesh made his debut for Team India in T20Is and so far has played 9 T20Is.
