'My dad needed me more than the World Cup...': India batter breaks silence on father's demise after T20 World Cup 2026

Wicketkeeper-batter Jitesh Sharma missed out on the T20 World Cup 2026 at the last moment, as the selectors chose Ishan Kishan instead. Jitesh had been part of India’s T20I squad after their 2024 T20 World Cup win in the Caribbean, but he didn’t get many opportunities to shine.

Ishan Kishan made a great comeback after being out of the national side for over two years. He made his international comeback after impressing the selectors in domestic cricket. The southpaw also played a crucial role in India's T20 World Cup win.

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Jitesh Sharma on missing out from India's World Cup squad

Missing a chance to play in a home World Cup was naturally disappointing, and Jitesh admitted it was tough. Speaking to PTI, he revealed that at the same time, he needed to be with his ailing father, who sadly passed away on February 1.

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“When I got the news, I felt disheartened. I’m only human, so it’s natural to feel sad and disappointed,” Jitesh said. “But with the support of my family and friends, I was able to get through that period.”

He added, “My father was ill, and I spent seven days by his side before he passed. Later, I realised he needed me more than the World Cup. I have no regrets, I’m grateful I could be there for him in his final days.”

Despite not playing, Jitesh was overjoyed with India’s World Cup triumph. “Watching the World Cup from home is very different and much more stressful than playing on the field. I’m really happy for the boys, they executed the vision of the coach, captain, and the entire team perfectly,” he said.

India's campaign in T20 World Cup 2026

Suryakumar Yadav-led side lost only one match in the T20 World Cup 2026, that too their first Super 8 clash against South Africa. After that, India defeated Zimbabwe, the West Indies, England, and New Zealand, respectively, in the Super 8, semifinal, and final to defend the title. Notably, with that win, India becomes the first-ever side to defend the title and win the trophy on their home soil. Team India has also become the side with the most T20 World Cup titles.