In the Super Over against Bangladesh A in the Asia Cup Rising Stars 2025 tournament semi-finals, India A captain Jitesh Sharma made an intriguing decision by keeping the in-form Vaibhav Suryavanshi in the dugout and opening the batting with Ramandeep Singh before Ashutosh Sharma entered at No. 3.
On Friday, November 22, the West End Park International Cricket Stadium in Doha hosted the exciting semi-final. India A was aiming for 195 runs when Suryavanshi hit a quick 15-ball 38 at the top of the order. India A had to bat first as the game dragged into the Super Over. Jitesh and Ramandeep marched to resume play, despite everyone expecting Suryavanshi, the team’s top run scorer in the tournament, to bat for the second time of the day.
Suryavanshi watched nervously from the bench as Ashutosh walked out to bat after Jitesh was removed off the first ball by Ripon Mondol. He was clearly eager to step out to the middle and use his big-hitting skills to lead India A to a respectable total. The management of India A, however, had different plans.
The innings for India A finished in two balls after Ashutosh was out for a golden duck. Suyash Sharma gave the opposition a memorable triumph after Bangladesh lost the wicket of Yasir Ali from the opening ball.
When Suryavanshi, who finished the competition with an incredible strike rate of 243.88, was not sent out to the middle in the Super Over, both the fans and the commentators were baffled. However, Jitesh clarified during the post-match presentation ceremony that he, Ashutosh, and Ramandeep hit well in the latter part of the innings, while Suryavanshi and Priyansh Arya are masters of the powerplay.
“Ashu and Raman can hit whenever they want in the final overs, but Vaibhav and Priyansh are the team’s powerplay experts. I therefore had the last say in the Super Over lineup, which was decided by the team, Jitesh said.
I ought to have completed the game: Jitesh Sharma
Before being removed in the fifteenth over, Jitesh Sharma threatened to end the game for Bangladesh A with a score of 33 from 22 balls. Jitesh Sharma for the Royal Challengers Bengaluru acknowledged that he ought to have completed the match for his team.
“We had a great game of cricket and learnt a lot.” I’ll accept full responsibility because I should have completed the game as a senior. Learning is more important than winning or losing. You never know; one day, these youthful athletes might help India win the World Cup. Talent-wise, they’re reaching new heights. It all comes down to experience and education,” Jitesh Sharma continued.
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