Rinku Singh and Jitesh Sharma are expected to feature in India's playing XI against Ireland.
Rinku has earned his maiden India call-up on the back of his stunning exploits in the IPL 2023 season for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). On the other hand, Jitesh has received another opportunity to be a part of the Indian dressing room after doing well in the IPL for Punjab Kings (PBKS) for the last couple of seasons.
Earlier this year, the wicketkeeper-batter was roped in as a replacement for injured Sanju Samson for the white-ball series against Sri Lanka and New Zealand but did not get a chance to feature in the playing XI.
On the eve of the first T20I against Ireland, Rinku and Jitesh interacted with each other for bcci.tv and shared their reactions on travelling with the Indian team.
“I feel very nice. It’s a player’s dream to be playing for the Indian national team. When I got to my room and saw my jersey which had my name and the number 35 emblazoned on it, it was a very emotional feeling,” Rinku told Jitesh.
“I was in Noida, in the place where I practiced. When the team was announced, it felt really good. I called my mother and informed her. She always said that I had to play for India so both of our dreams came true,” he added.
Jitesh said: “Obviously, I feel great. It’s always a nice experience when you travel with the Indian team to any foreign country. It’s an opportunity and our responsibility to express ourselves.”
The Men in Blue will be led by Jasprit Bumrah in the T20I series against Ireland. The ace pacer is making a comeback to the national team after a lengthy-injury hiatus.
Bumrah will be keen to prove his match fitness on the tour as he is certain to be picked for the upcoming 50-over Asia Cup as well.